The stage is set for yet another wonderful game of cricket, hopefully. The cricketing giant, India, and cricketing nemesis for many, Pakistan, are poised to play to their strengths; that is to say if they dont first play to their emotions. Some ardent fans, besides cheering up the teams, have termed it the mother of all matches. This being just a match is sure to end up with only one team victorious.
Cricket is what the people of this region breathe in, its more than just passion. When Afridi XI steps in the field today, millions of fans in and outside the ground in Mohali, would be holding their breath. Same is true for the Dhoni XI as well. The Pakistani side has a formidable bowling attack with Afridi being the highest wicket taker so far in the tournament. The opening duo and poor fielding, on the other hand, have been a bane for the team. Experts are quick to point out that what the Indian side lacks in bowling they make up in their battling line-up with the likes of Sehwag, Tendulkar, Kohli and Gambhir. Whats more, defeat in every single match Pakistan played against India in World Cups is sure to haunt them though they would like to break the jinx while the Indians would like to keep their record untarnished. Given the situation is as explosive as it could be in a sporting event, keeping the cool and nerves steady is the task at hand for the captains. Playing it for the love of the game can give something to both the teams to relish and cherish afterwards. Its amazing to see how a simple game of cricket can bring millions together.
As good as it may sound though, things are not that simple on home fronts. The Indian media has made it a war not between the two teams, but between the nations. Our very own man of awkward moments and statements, Rehman Malik, did nothing less than demoralising the team at a time when even a single word of encouragement would mean a lot. Even if the message of strict scrutiny had to be conveyed, there are more subtle and discreet ways to do the same.
With anticipations high, all eyes are set on todays match. Keeping it just a sport is what the players and fans need the most.
