Representing one’s nation is a matter of great prestige for any cricketer, even if it is just for a solitary game. Once the jersey goes upon you, it comes with a massive weight of expectations from those countless fans who can only dream of donning the jersey someday. Not everyone gets fortunate enough to don on the national jersey but the ones who do, have gone through hell to grab it just like Siraj.
Similarly, when one sings the national anthem of a nation, all the emotions come together and culminate into an extremely power-charged visceral moment, bringing out the very best in them. After a brilliant first couple of Tests, India and Australia headed to Sydney for their third battle.
Barring the 36-run-fiasco, India has so far dominated the proceedings and dictated terms until the third test started. However, before the game kicked-off, a lot unfolded on the sides that were powerful enough to move any cricket fan.
Siraj broke down in tears while singing the national anthem
Mohammad Siraj already had a roller-coaster ride as he lost his father just before the tour. He put up a good show until now and in the Test series, his doors of fortune opened up after Mohammad Shami got injured. The young pacer didn’t fail to impress as he managed to scalp five wickets in the very first Test match and in the process became the first debutant in seven years to register this herculean feat.
Very touching #siraj during national anthem 3rd Test match. 🙏👍 #TestCricket @imVkohli #INDvsAUSTest pic.twitter.com/6nMgYzYw25
Advertisement— HP (@heman_12) January 6, 2021
Today before the third Test started at Sydney, there were a few emotional moments that caught everyone by storm. Bumrah handed over Saini’s first Test cap was numbered 299.
Then after the toss, it was expected for both teams to line up and sing the national anthem. However, Indian fast bowler, Mohammad Siraj let go of his emotions as he broke down in tears while singing the national anthem. Unless you feel those powerful emotions in your veins, you would never shed a drop of tear.
✊ #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/4NK95mVYLN
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 6, 2021
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India didn’t really have a good outing on the first day as Steven Smith and Marnus Labuschange kept on dispersing the Indian bowlers to the ropes with consummate ease. Pucovski also had his Test debut and played a decent knock, supporting Marnus to put up a resolute stand in order to pique the Indian meat. Australia ended the day at 166 for 2 with Labuschange unbeaten at 67 and Smith not out at 31.
