Without doubt one of the greatest fixtures of the modern era was played yesterday between two of cricket’s greats as India faced off against Pakistan. Emphasis was placed on key battles across the pitch- India had the superior batting line-up, but could they deal with the Pakistani bowling? However, the closer the game got, the more it became apparent that this was not just a game. This was one of the greatest events in recent sporting history. Sure, upon first view this is just a World Cup Semi-Final – cricket isn’t even that popular anyway is it?
Well, over one billion people are believed to have watched the event in Mohali, as cricket fever gripped not just Pakistan and India but the entire world. The Rotunda in Kingston was bouncing up and down as every run and every boundary was greeted with huge cheers from the respective fans. Supporters woke at 3am in Toronto to watch the game. The scenes in Southall, London were quite incredible; never mind the pure jubilation in Mohali and across the rest of India.
The match was also billed up to be a big diplomatic event, claiming the game could fuel peace between the countries. One day before the game, Indian and Pakistani officials allowed each other to enter the other country to investigate the events surrounding the Mumbai attacks. For the game, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh invited his counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani and they watched the game together after shaking hands with the players.
For many fans, this was a bigger game than the final itself. A win against the old enemy would mean so much, and that’s exactly what they got to set up a dream semi-final against co-hosts Sri Lanka. A solid India performance gave them the vital win and set up a long night of wild celebrations reminiscent of those at Diwali. Many criticized the length and set-up of the tournament, but one thing it hasn’t been short of is drama and excitement. The final on Saturday is sure to provide no less, and an Indian win in front of the home crowd seems destined, with Tendulkar’s hunt for his 100th century sure to be a fascinating side story.
Ben Carter
