Hyderabad readies for second Diwali' as India takes on Australia in WC final

Hyderabad: Armed with firecrackers and blue jerseys, the city is set for what some call “the ultimate cricket Sunday” and “a second Diwali” as India takes on Australia in the 2023 ICC’s Men’s Cricket World Cup, with residents all set to pause other aspects of their lives.

While the match will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, enthusiasts are geared up to cheer so loudly that it reaches the team in the northern state.

Saturday was abuzz with people flocking to buy a jersey, checking the availability of seats at restaurants, pubs and bars that televise sporting events, and decking out their vehicles with the Tricolour for a victory rally, if the Men In Blue prevail.

Bhanu Ravi, a model and fitness enthusiast, said: “I will be watching this most-awaited match at one of the big screens in the city, wearing the team’s T-shirt. We will cheer our team and wish them to win the match.”

Majaz Hussain, a resident of Barkas, said: “A group of my friends has planned to take out a rally on bikes and cars as soon as India wins. We also plan to burst crackers. We have big plans and are hoping it would be a bigger celebration once we get that cup.”

Chintala Mallareddy, a Bolaram resident, said: “I am hosting a watch party for the finals by arranging a big screen at a convention hall, with food and beverages for around 100 people. This day is an opportunity to host such a remarkable event.”

Mamadi Kishan, general manager of Air Live pub in Gachibowli, said, “To make the day much bigger for the guests, we have taken up special arrangements. Booking are about to close due to high demand.”