A Bittersweet Bond

India and Pakistan share a passionate rivalry on the cricket field and the fans of the two countries share a unique bond as their love for the sport outweighs the cricketing battle. Over the years plenty of times fans from both sides of the border have exhibited their appreciation for players of the other team.

It was the first time ever that a World Cup match between IND and PAK was being played in the UAE which is like a melting pot of cultures, where people from all nationalities come together and celebrate each other. Though the people from these 2 countries have their fair share of banter during the match, at the end of the day’s game, the expats of both the countries sit together and have a healthy discussion over it.

A classic example of such a celebration was observed yesterday at the residence of Mr. Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group who is also known as Mr. Cricket UAE, given his love and passion for the game. Despite being a cricket aficionado, where he organized a special screening of the iconic match at his residence for a close group of family friends from both the nationalities, instead of going to the stadium.

The vibe for the game started with the guests getting their face painted in support of their favourite team. Each wicket, boundary and six was celebrated with splendid performance of the dhol and the supporting fans dancing to tunes of Chak de India and Dil Dil Pakistan.

Sajan says, “I am lucky to able live my passion for the game and glad to be sharing it with all the other fans. Though India lost the match, it was great experience watching the game with my friends from both the nations.”

To say the least, the Pakistan fans ended the celebration a high note after the iconic victory by 10 wickets against India.

It is the love for the game that prevailed over the competition on field, which was seen clearly amongst all the guests after the match.

Anis signed off by saying, “Cricket is a Gentleman’s game and in this beautiful country, we are able to spread love and peace thanks to this wonderful game.”