The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) witnessed a moment of cultural pride as the renowned Shanul Sharma sings the Indian national anthem ahead of the fifth Test between India and Australia. The crowd erupted in applause, setting an electric tone for the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy final.
Shanul, an Indian-born tenor celebrated for his stellar operatic career, was accompanied by Australian singer Michael Paynter, who sang the Australian National Anthem. Together, their performances added a unique gravitas to the occasion, combining sports with the arts in a memorable prelude to the game.
The reaction from the Sydney crowd said it all: it wasn’t just about cricket. It was about pride, passion and shared joy of a global spectacle.
Bumrah leads India in crucial match
India’s regular captain Rohit Sharma opted out of the match, paving the way for Jasprit Bumrah to take the lead. Winning the toss, Bumrah decided to bat first, indicating a strategic approach to the game.
“We look to bat first. We have played some good cricket. The last game was exciting. The herb does not seem spicy. Our captain chose to rest, which shows the unity we have,” Bumrah said at the toss. He also confirmed two changes in the line-up – the absence of Rohit and Prasidh Krishna replacing the injured Akash Deep.
Shanul Sharma: a star beyond cricket
Shanul Sharma’s career spans some of the most prestigious opera stages in the world. His performances include iconic roles such as Don Ramiro in La Cenerentola, Tamino in The Magic Flute and Gandhi in Satyagraha. He has performed in renowned venues such as the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow and the Rossini Opera Festival in Pesaro.
The SCG crowd was visibly moved by Shanul’s powerful performance. For the Indian players, the performance was a source of inspiration as they prepared for a do-or-die match.
There is a lot at stake for India
This match has immense importance for both teams. India must win to keep their hopes of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final alive. A defeat or a draw would guarantee Australia’s qualification alongside South Africa.
The energy of Shanul’s performance seemed to resonate with the Indian team, adding a spark to their determination. With the SCG underway, the stage is set for an exciting finale to the series.