Heavy security as Pakistan host first cricket Test since 2009 attack. PHOTO: AFP
RAWALPINDI: The cricket test match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, which concluded in a draw on Sunday, was historic for many reasons. But for the residents of the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, it presented an opportunity to show the world that the city and its people remain warm and hospitable for visitors.
Even in the pouring rain, amid massive traffic gridlocks and stringent checking, residents turned out in droves to watch the first international test match played on Pakistani soil in nearly a decade. Inside the stadium, their spirits were as high as ever. Dressed in peculiar costumes showing their support for their chosen them, the fans remained loud and buoyant throughout.
Even when the fourth day was washed out, the noise by the fans was not dampened.
The road to the stadium was a tough one. Fans had to brave traffic jams before they could reach the stadium. At the venue, they had to wait in long queues as they were thoroughly searched before being let inside.
What made the experience a little easier was the fact that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had waived the Rs50 ticket, especially on Sunday, the fifth and last day of the match. Being a public holiday and with entry free, it helped pull in a large crowd.
Inside, fans cheered every ball as it was bowled or every run that was scored — excited to see an international team play before them after such a long time.
Instead of panning them fans appreciated the overall security arrangements as well as the energy of the spectators who came to enjoy the match despite all odds.
However, despite the enthusiasm of the fans, the lack of proper arrangements at the stadium affected the overall experience.
Not a single bowl could be bowled on the fourth-day due to rain while play only took place in short spells before being interrupted by rain or being called off early due to bad light.
The absence of modern equipment to quickly dry the outfield meant that fans did not get to see as much cricket as they hoped.
During the Pakistan Super League match in Lahore earlier this year, a helicopter had been used to dry the pitch.
In the absence of advanced tools, the ground staff resorted to the traditional methods, such as the use of wipers, to make pitch fit for the match to resume.
Spectators also faced difficulties as most of the enclosures in the Rawalpindi stadium do not have shades to keep the rain out.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 16th, 2019.
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