Lucknow: The scorching summer heat failed to keep cricket lovers away from the Ekana Stadium on Wednesday as thousands of fans turned up in large numbers to watch India take on Afghanistan in the second ODI. With temperatures hovering around 40°C and the heat index climbing even higher, spectators braved the harsh conditions to cheer for the home side, waving tricolours and erupting in celebration as the Indian batters dominated the Afghanistan bowlers.
Armed with caps, umbrellas, sunglasses, wet towels and handheld fans, supporters filled the stands, refusing to let the blazing sun dampen their enthusiasm. Every stroke from Rohit Sharma, the “Hitman”, brought the crowd to its feet, with the Indian captain’s presence alone keeping thousands glued to their seats despite the punishing weather. His dismissal briefly silenced the stands before Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan reignited the celebrations with fluent knocks.
The match also doubled up as a summer outing for families. In a season usually associated with quiet afternoons indoors, Lucknow witnessed children, parents and grandparents arriving together, many dressed in blue India jerseys with their faces painted in the colours of the tricolour.
“I am here for my kids. They are very excited for this game and wanted to see the Indian cricket team,” said Aliganj resident Swati Thakur, who attended the match with her children, Tejas and Mehak. “Our Indian players are playing in this heat. Why should we not come to cheer for our heroes? Hats off to them.”
Nine-year-old Daksh arrived with three friends wearing a blue India jersey with his name printed on it. “My favourite player is Virat Kohli, but today I came for Shubman Gill. He played brilliantly and helped India settle after the early struggle,” he said.
His friend Kratin, dressed in a light blue T-shirt and shorts, kept himself cool with a small rechargeable fan while following the action from the stands. “I am here to support my team,” he said with a smile, unfazed by the soaring temperatures.
