“Back to the ’80s!” Team India’s Reactions to These Vintage Photos Steal the Show

NEW DELHI — Ahead of the opening Twenty20 International (T20I) fixture between India and Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, members of the Indian national cricket team took a lighthearted break from rigorous training to participate in a viral 1980s vintage photo trend. Released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday, September 12, 2026, a special behind-the-scenes video captured the players' amused reactions to AI-generated portraits depicting them in classic retro styling.

The trend, which utilizes artificial intelligence to reimagine contemporary individuals with vintage hairstyles, classic retro outfits, and old-camera grains typical of 1980s pop culture, provided a relaxed atmosphere for the squad. Among the most talked-about reactions was 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, whose expression of surprise and amusement upon viewing his classic avatar quickly went viral across digital platforms.

Retro Styling and Squad Reactions

As the Indian contingent prepares for a high-stakes three-match bilateral series under captain Shreyas Iyer, the digital media activation offered a brief moment of camaraderie. Players such as Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, Axar Patel, and Shivam Dube were captured laughing and comparing their retro makeovers during the team session.

For younger members of the squad like Sooryavanshi—who is line for a potential home international debut following strong overseas performances in England and Zimbabwe—seeing themselves transformed into 1980s Bollywood-esque icons offered a humorous contrast to their intense modern training routines. The lighthearted diversion helped ease pre-match tension as the team finalized tactical combinations to counter Afghanistan's spin-heavy attack.

According to official social media releases, team media disclosures, and board updates:

• Viral Campaign: BCCI published an exclusive video featuring Team India players reacting to AI-styled 1980s portraits.

• Player Participation: Prominent reactions featured 15-year-old opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Axar Patel.

• Timing: Released on the eve of the India-Afghanistan T20I series opener in New Delhi.

• Context: Designed as a fan-engagement initiative to showcase the squad's lighter side amid demanding bilateral schedules.

Official Sources Section

• Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Official Handles: Official video releases, social media media drops, and squad promotional content.

• International Cricket Council (ICC) Media Disclosures: Series scheduling, team news, and bilateral tournament updates.

Quote Section

"According to official board media releases and team disclosures, the 1980s vintage photo trend offered the Indian squad a welcome moment of recreation and fan engagement ahead of their competitive home series against Afghanistan."

Why It Matters

For sports fans and digital consumers, viral media trends bridge the gap between high-performance athletes and everyday internet culture, humanizing professional competitors. For cricket administrators, creative social media activations boost online engagement and maintain high fan connectivity during intense bilateral calendars.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Event: Team India 1980s vintage photo trend participation.

• Key Focus: 15-year-old rising star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's reaction.

• Series Context: Ahead of the India vs. Afghanistan T20I series opener.

• Platform: Released via BCCI's official digital channels.

FAQ Session

Why did Team India players participate in the 1980s photo trend?

The players took part in a viral AI-powered throwback trend as a promotional and recreational media activity organized ahead of their series against Afghanistan.

Who featured prominently in the viral video released by the BCCI?

Young opening batsman Vaibhav Sooryavanshi drew significant attention for his amused reaction, alongside teammates like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Axar Patel.

When is the India vs. Afghanistan T20I series taking place?

The three-match T20I series kicks off with the opening fixture on September 13, 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

Where can fans watch the viral video of the Indian players?

The official video and retro portraits are accessible via the BCCI Official Portal and their verified social media handles.

Source: Board of Control for Cricket in India, International Cricket Council, The Times of India Sports Desk, Aaj Tak Sports Bureau