Mad rush for tickets of IPL match on May 11 afternoon
Cricket has a large fan following in India, but watching a match against the backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains is a lifetime experience for many, if the scenes outside the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium are to be believed.
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) returns to this picturesque venue, the buzz surrounding the fixture between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians on May 11 afternoon has overshadowed the craze for other matches scheduled to be played here. Reason? It’s the only afternoon match that is offering fans the rare opportunity to witness both high-octane cricket and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of snow-clad Dhauladhars.
The stadium is set to host three matches: Punjab Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants (May 3), Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals (May 8) and Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians (May 11).
On Saturday, long queues of cricket enthusiasts were seen outside the stadium’s box office and most of them were demanding tickets for the May 11 match. “I came for the May 11 match tickets. Online rates are too high and affordable tickets are available only at the stadium’s window. I didn’t expect so much crowd, it’s crazy,” said Preeti Sharma, a cricket fan from Palampur.
In response to the overwhelming demand, the ticket prices for the last home match here have risen. “There are two reasons: one is the star-studded Mumbai Indians team and the other is the match will be played in the afternoon. For instance, the ticket for pavilion terrace seat was Rs 10,000 for the first two matches but it is available for Rs 15,000 for the May 11 match. Besides, it will be the last home match of Punjab Kings and so everyone wants to watch it," said a local cricketer.
Echoing the same sentiment, Adil Manchanda from Ropar said, “Morning matches here are magical. Evening games feel like any other stadium.”
Light showers on Saturday created a scare among the local organisers over the prospects of matches here. Though the rain lasted for a few hours, groundsmen rushed to cover the wicket. The Meteorological Department has forecast thunderstorms and rain for the next four days, followed by two days of lighter rain.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta organised a customary yajna at the HPCA stadium, a gesture the outfit does before starting their home fixtures every year. Last month, HPCA officials had also visited the revered Indru Nag temple, who is believed to have influence over local weather, and performed rituals, seeking favourable conditions.
Himachal Tribune