In an attempt to marry cricket and entertainment, and a very successful one at that, The IPL T20 cricket tournament was born. There are eight teams, which are owned by famous celebs as well as high level businessmen. Since the very beginning, this form of cricket clicked with the masses, and soon enough, it was hit. Everyone wanted to go the matches, watch and have a blast!
I had been to one of these matches, when the Royal challengers Bangalore were up against Chennai super kings. To be frank, I am not a cricket enthusiast, and the idea of going to the match alone, did not suit me. But nevertheless, since it was a costly ticket, and that this might be the only time I might get to go and watch for free, I decided to go. To get into the spirit of the game, I got myself a Royal challenger fan jersey. Even thought I did not consider myself a fan of the game, I found myself excited. I guess thats the magic of the game. It'll make you a fan, even though you aren't.
After loading up, I set out to the stadium where the match was to be held. As I neared the stadium, the excitement in me grew. There were people waiting in long queues, to get into the stadium. Hawkers were trying to sell all sorts of things, from flags to shirts, trying to make a quick buck. There were some people, getting their face painted, with the logos of their favorite team. Others seemed lost, and were moving hither and thither, looking for the right gate enter through.
I had a corporate box ticket. Once I got into my gate, and sat on my seat, I realized why this sport was loved by all. The euphoria is just awesome. There are hundreds of people, screaming and shouting for their favorite team. The DJ wasted no time, and he started playing some very catchy tunes, to get the crowd moving.
There were two things that made my night. First, the cheerleaders. I truly feel they are the ones that keep the crowd moving. They are hot, and their moves are graceful. They definitely kept ME entertained at all times! Second was the unlimited food. I could go at any point of the match, grab myself a bite of a variety of snacks and savories! As the match proceeded, every ball that was hit for a four or a six, was followed by cheers, screams and every other human form of showings ones excitement and happiness. And not to mention the time wickets were taken. The crowd used to go hysterical!
As I sat there, looking around me, I realized one thing. Cricket is just not any other sport here in India. Its something that the people of this nation share in common. There were people of all ages, communities, and in fact even from different countries. All present there to enjoy the game. Cricket is something that unites us here. Its like the language everyone speaks.
I loved every single moment of that 3 hours i spent in the stadium. Even though I was a little to myself initially, I opened out and started to enjoy the game, like everyone else. It was an awesome experience, and everyone should, at least once, go to a cricket match, and just feel the excitement. The rush when your side needs the last run to win, or when your team needs to take the last wicket.
