In a remarkable event, 1,000 schoolchildren from Barnala witnessed their first-ever Test match as India defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs at Mullanpur. Fifty students from 20 government schools traveled to the new venue, dressed in uniforms and waving the Indian flag, creating an electrifying atmosphere. For many, particularly those from families of labourers and small farmers, this outing was a dream come true. Fifteen-year-old Sachin Kumar, a fan of cricketer KL Rahul, expressed his amazement at watching Team India live. The experience also inspired students like Sukhmanpreet Kaur, who had never seen a stadium before, to consider pursuing sports. The excitement peaked when an Army helicopter flew over the stadium, eliciting cheers from the crowd. Students collected memorabilia, including signed T-shirts and cricket balls, making the day unforgettable. As the match concluded, the children lingered in the stands, reluctant to leave the historic experience behind.