Historic First: 'Vande Mataram' Played Before National Anthem at India-Afghanistan T20I

Sep 13, 2026

67 min

Sep 13, 2026 21:30

First time ever, Vande Mataram played before national anthem at India-Afghanistan T20I

## Pre-Match Ceremony Highlights

For the first time in Indian cricket history, the national song 'Vande Mataram' was played before the national anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' during the T20I match between India and Afghanistan. This took place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on September 13, 2026.

## New Tradition Initiated

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that 'Vande Mataram' will now be played before the national anthem at the start of every home series involving India. This decision aligns with a directive from the Union Home Ministry, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the song, which has deep roots in India's freedom movement.

## Legal Protection for 'Vande Mataram'

The recent amendment to the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, now provides statutory protection to 'Vande Mataram'. The amendment, approved by President Droupadi Murmu in August, makes it an offence to prevent or disrupt the singing of the national song.

## Match Outcome

In the match itself, India secured a convincing seven-wicket victory over Afghanistan. After being put to bat first, Afghanistan scored 156 for eight in their 20 overs. Azmatullah Omarzai top-scored with an unbeaten 64, while Arshdeep Singh was India's standout bowler, taking three wickets. India chased down the target in just 13.4 overs, with Abhishek Sharma contributing a notable half-century.

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