Battle at Mohali

Mohali, March 30^th 2011 – It is not like any other day. The day when the whole nation comes to standstill for a period of seven hours; it could be more chilling than the cold waters of the Arctic. It is the day which will be engraved in the history of cricket as the two arch rivals in the sub continent lock their horns for the berth in the finals. Their rivalry is considered to be one of the most intense in the sporting fraternity.

India is going to face Pakistan for the fifth time. Everyone dreamt of this epic battle between the two of the fiercest teams in the cricketing world. On their day, they have the capacity to tear the opposition apart. Both the teams know their strengths their weaknesses. If it is so obvious, what is so unique about this encounter, some might wonder.

With perpetual political indifferences between the two nations, this game of cricket is expected to bring the nations together. It has indeed brought the heads to meet easily (which otherwise would have had lot of bureaucratic interferences). So, this isn’t just a game of cricket, but an ambassador of peace. This is more than just a game wherein anybody could win or lose.  From the players’ perspective, it is all about winning, for the heroes will be immortalized.

Mohali, known for its facilities & environment, is widely regarded as one of the best cricket grounds in India. This swanky stadium hosts the grand event, wherein some legends are dying to engrave their names in the cricketing history. The speed of Akhtar, accuracy of Gul, tectonics of Afridi & co has made Pakistan sail through to semis with least resistance. On the other hand riding on a determined Sachin, gusty Yuvraj, Breezy Sehwag, and matured Zaheer, India had to face rough sea. While Akmal had his chances behind the wickets, Dhoni & Yousuf have been long due. So far, Pakistan had overcome the obstacles with ease, while India had to earn its place the hard way. With different approaches towards the game, both the teams seem well prepared.

As the momentum snowballs into a humongous force across the nation, work takes a back seat with employees groups taking sides (rather one side). It is an unofficial holiday at the IndiaInc. Most of the corporate are gearing up with various options for their employees to minimize the impact on the deliverables. Day off, multiple televisions installed on the floor, screening in the cafeteria are some of the schemes the companies are resorting to. After all, India is playing against Pakistan for a berth in the final.

As both the nations ready their armies for the battle, there isn’t much to take sides as it is more about handling the nerves. I can hear my heart pounding as I imagine the moment, the moment every Indian has been waiting for the last one week. Will it be a cracker as always, or will it be a knockout punch by either of the teams.

We will have to wait.