Fans146; eye view:paisa vasool

They came in large numbers; many queued up in front of the heavily barricaded Pindi Cricket Stadium from as early as 9 a.m. for a 2 p.m. sta...

They came in large numbers; many queued up in front of the heavily barricaded Pindi Cricket Stadium from as early as 9 a.m. for a 2 p.m. start. They braved the heat 8212; 35 degrees and very humid in the afternoon 8212; and were cooperative with the stringent security measures. They tolerated the delays and difficulties in obtaining drinking water and cold drinks; they smiled at the other inconveniences.

But they were out to set a good example of discipline and sportsmanship, having been shown the way by their brethern in Karachi who set a very high standard of good behaviour, hospitality, knowledge, and sporting spirit by their exemplary behaviour during the first ODI.

The fans from Islamabad, Rawalpindi and nearby areas were there to emulate, if not out do, the Karachiites. They caused no problems, though Pindi has had its share of troubles and problems in some previous matches. They cheered President Musharraf, who came to watch part of the proceedings along with some of his cabinet colleagues.

They applauded good performances from both sides, resorting to Mexican waves and displayed a camaraderie with their Indian guests who shared the stands with the Pakistani spectators no segregation 8212; the Tricolour and the crescent and green were side by side, It was heartening to see a banner, displayed by fans from both countries, which said 8216;8216;India will not win; Pakistan will not win; we will win8217;8217;.

In the end all went home cheerful and satisfied, having seen one of the greatest innings in one day matches from the greatest batsman to have played this version of the game. There were sighs of relief because Pakistan had won, pulled one back and equalised the series; still all to play for in Peshawar.

Lots of questions are being asked about the sales of tickets. The PCB has done the best they can; they have eliminated complimentary tickets. Those dubbed as 8216;complimentary8217; are probably bought by the PCB, debited to their public relations budget and given to those who may have been of assistance to the PCB. So what8217;s the big deal? What is all the fuss about? It is asked why seats are astill vacant if all tickets have been sold out8230;I am sure there are also explaanations for that.

The show moves on to Peshawar, where the proud and valiant Pathans are known for their bravery and hospitality. It is reportedly a sellout, as it should be. Peshawar has been unjustly starved of international cricket for some time. It would be in the fitness of things if the Pathan from Baroda plays there; he deserves to come in place of Zaheer, though Ganguly seems to have more faith in Zaheer than the experts and pundits. Why Zaheer bowled those last two overs in which he went for 21 runs instead of Balaji left many scratching their heads.