Long after India’s thrilling victory over Sri Lanka in the last Asia Cup Super Four match on Friday night, eager fans gathered near the Team India bus, hoping to see their favorite cricket stars.
It was midnight, and one fan, wrapped in Indian colors, kept waving the flag and cheering as everyone’s eyes stayed glued to the exit gate.
One by one, the players emerged, prompting loud cheers from the crowd.
While each player received enthusiastic applause, it was Shubman Gill, India’s star batter, and Jasprit Bumrah, the world’s top fast bowler, who truly electrified the gathering.
Gill and Bumrah simply smiled and waved before boarding the bus.
Fans were hoping for more—perhaps an autograph or selfie.
Ultimately, it was captain Suryakumar Yadav who paused as fans held their breath.
With a smile, Surya approached the crowd, signing autographs as fans scrambled for a front-row spot.
Among the lucky fans were two 10-year-old Dubai students, Siddhanth and Vedanth.
These young aspiring cricketers were overjoyed when Surya signed autographs for them.
“Honestly, at first, when we were waiting for the players, you feel nervous because you’re unsure how to interact, but when Surya signed, our hearts were so happy. You can’t feel happier,” Siddhanth shared.
This small gesture from the Indian captain has inspired the two friends to pursue their cricket dreams more seriously.
“I always wanted to be a professional player. Now, this has inspired me to take cricket more seriously,” said Siddhanth, a young right-arm pace bowler for Jumeira Baccalaureate School and his academy team, It’s Just Cricket.
His friend, Vedanth, has yet to join an academy but is passionately dedicated to the game.
“I bat, bowl, and also do wicket-keeping. I do everything on a cricket field,” he said.
“Today was our first live cricket match experience. Watching India win and getting Surya’s autograph feels like a dream come true.”
