Guwahati tie a challenge

As the high voltage Indo-Pak series starts Monday at the Nehru Stadium in Guwahati, the organisers are faced with a challenging task.

As the high voltage Indo-Pak series starts Monday at the Nehru Stadium in Guwahati, the organisers are faced with a challenging task. The Assam Cricket Association, along with the state police, has turned the stadium into a high-security area.

The wicket here doesn’t have an enviable track record, and that’s a big worry. Added to that is the security concern in the city.

The stadium is swamped by police personnel and DIG (Western Range, Assam) GP Singh said that it was not just another cricket match. “We are deploying a huge number of policemen, both local officers and from the state battalion. We all know that the situation here is different, and more so because it’s an India-Pakistan match.”

Story continues below this ad

The last international match here between India and England was washed out last year in April, and crowd trouble followed.

To add to all of this is the weather condition here. Curator Sunil Barua said there are runs in the wicket, but early morning dew and fog will help bowlers too. Umpire Ian Gould, taking into consideration that it gets dark very early here, said: “It’s got to be a sharp 8.30 am start.”

India warns of ‘likely humanitarian consequences’ after US H-1B visa fee hike

India34 min ago

India voices concerns over new $100,000 fee for H-1B visa, citing humanitarian impact and family disruptions. Government urges US to address issues, while industry and policymakers study the move for mutual benefits. September 21 deadline for H-1B visa holders to return to US could affect skilled Indian professionals, who make up 72% of beneficiaries.

View all shorts

Live Blog