Goa, Aug. 20 -- Performing national anthems at world-class sporting venues has evolved into a cornerstone of English soprano Laura Wright's career. However, taking the field at Headingley ahead of Pakistan's Test series opener against England presented a distinctive challenge: delivering Pakistan's national anthem, Qaumi Taranah, in Urdu.

The 36-year-old mezzo-soprano, trained at the Royal College of Music, previously sang India's national anthem, Jana Gana Mana, in Bengali before men's Test matches against England in 2025 as well as at Lord's. Speaking on her process, Wright emphasized that performing complex regional anthems requires significant dedication, and she only accepts invitations when she can allocate enough preparation time ...