VISHAKHAPATNAM: Cricket fever reached its zenith in Visakhapatnam on Sunday as Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) transformed key locations across the city into vibrant fan parks for the much-anticipated World Cup final.
ACA's initiative brought together cricket enthusiasts from all walks of life at such parks on Beach Road, Gokarting Port Stadium, Iron Hill in Siripuram, Vizag Drive-In at Lawson's Bay Colony, Studio Grill in Sagarnagar, Moon Bar and Kitchen on VIP Road, Stone Water in Yendada, and Shore Front Resort in Rushikonda.
What set the event apart is ACA's decision to make entry free at these parks. As per a count, there were 2–3 lakh enthusiastic spectators at the various park venues.
The atmosphere remained surcharged in the beginning. But India not reaching a big score brought disappointment. Yet, the atmosphere remained charged with excitement. It peaked with three wickets of Australia falling at a low score.
Excitement dwindled thereafter. When the match concluded, disappointment among Vizagites was palpable. While some accepted the defeat gracefully, acknowledging it is part of the game, others expressed their frustration. They perceived it as underperformance by the Indian team when it mattered the most.
“Our team should have played better," said a disappointed fan.
