By Abhishek Roy, IANS,
New Delhi: A thunderous applause greeted India and Pakistan players as they walked out for the much anticipated Hockey World Cup clash in a near capacity Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here Sunday night.
The hype was building for more than a week and when the moment arrived, the historic venue was abuzz with action on the eve of Holi, the festival of colours. Even the heavy security checks did not dampen the mood of the 16,000 spectators, who had to walk several kilometres to enter the stadium on the opening day of the mega event.
The thick security cover outside the stadium, following threats from Al Qaeeda, had threatened to douse the spectators’ enthusiasm. But all such doubts were quashed, as not only Indians but also a handful of Pakistani supporters were seen cheering for their teams from the stands, to add to an electrifying ambience.
Sultan Zia came all the away from Rawalpindi to cheer his team and was overwhelmed to see such a big crowd for the India-Pakistan match.
“It was a great feeling for me. Sitting besides Indians and cheering for my team was a great experience. We should have more matches like these in both India and Pakistan. Sports should be kept out of all politics. In fact, it is a great way to bridge distance,” Sultan told IANS.
Karolbagh’s Surendra Singh, sitting by Sultan, felt the same way.
“It is great to see any India-Pakistan encounter, be it in hockey or cricket. But it is sad to see that both the teams have lost a lot of ground in modern hockey,” he said.
FIH president Leandro Negre was delighted to see the turnout for the clash.
“It is great to see such a turnout. I think this match will set the tempo of the tournament,” he said.