Historic India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Clash in New York
New York will witness a thrilling first on Sunday as it hosts a World Cup cricket match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan. Ajith Shetty, president of two local cricket leagues, expressed his excitement, calling it a game everyone wants to watch. However, some fans, like Rajeet Krishna from Queens, find ticket prices too expensive and will watch on mobile devices instead. The 34,000 seats at the pop-up stadium in Eisenhower Park, Long Island, have been sold out for months.
T20 Format and Ticket Controversy
This is the first Cricket World Cup held in the US and will be in the T20 format, featuring shorter, three-hour games instead of the traditional five-day format. Ticket resale prices have soared to at least $800, drawing criticism from former IPL president Lalit Modi, who condemned the inflated prices as contrary to the tournament’s goals of game expansion and fan engagement.
Anticipation Among Diverse Communities
The match has generated excitement not only among Indian and Pakistani communities but also among other South Asians. Faros Ahmed, a Bangladeshi restaurant manager, described the India-Pakistan rivalry as “like lion and tiger.” He plans to broadcast the game for his customers, despite not being from either country. Many Bangladeshis, who run businesses in Little India, Queens, support Pakistan, reflecting historical and political ties.
High Stakes for Pakistan
Sunday’s game is crucial for Pakistan, facing potential early elimination after a surprising loss to the United States. Pakistani journalist Wajahat S. Khan voiced his mixed emotions, acknowledging Pakistan’s likely defeat but maintaining hope in the team’s unpredictable nature. The US victory over Pakistan has heightened cricket interest in America, with local news channels explaining the sport. Ajith Shetty hopes the tournament will lead to better infrastructure for New York’s cricket players, although the temporary stadium will be dismantled in July, leaving local leagues seeking a permanent venue.
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