The
While preparing for the opening match of the series, the players discovered a collection of digitally altered images waiting for them at their hotel. The portraits transformed the modern-day athletes into retro icons, featuring signature 1980s staples such as oversized sunglasses, voluminous hairstyles, and classic bell-bottom denim.
Players React to Nostalgic Transformations
The lighthearted surprise provided a moment of levity for the squad. All-rounder Axar Patel and teammate Abhishek Sharma were among the first to discover the images, sharing a laugh as they presented the retro-styled portraits to the rest of the group. The amusement was shared by several key members of the team, including
Ishan Kishan, fresh off his success leading the East Zone to victory in the Duleep Trophy, appeared to be the most enthusiastic participant. The wicketkeeper-batter fully embraced the theme, posing for the camera and singing while holding his AI-generated portrait. Other squad members, including Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yash Thakur, and Ravi Bishnoi, also joined in the fun, clearly enjoying the break from their standard pre-match routines.
Focus Shifts to T20I Series Opener
The team’s focus is now set on the competitive action ahead, as India prepares to host Afghanistan for a three-match T20I series. The opening encounter is scheduled for Sunday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Following the first match, the two sides will remain at the same venue for the second and third fixtures, which are slated for Tuesday and Thursday respectively.
