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It’s not every day that a domestic cricket match outshines an international tournament opener, but Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy did just that. The Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi saw a significant turnout for Kohli’s comeback, while the IND vs BAN Champions Trophy match in Dubai struggled with attendance.
Despite the Dubai International Stadium boasting a capacity of 25,000, the stands were shockingly sparse for the highly anticipated India-Bangladesh clash. The visuals of empty seats went viral, leaving fans puzzled and disappointed. This stark contrast in fan engagement raised many questions on social media.
Why Was Dubai Stadium Empty?
While a considerable Indian population resides in the UAE, the oppressive heat of Dubai seems to have played a major role in keeping fans away from the stadium. Additionally, it was a weekday, further discouraging attendance.
Fans online had plenty to say about the lack of crowds:
- One user joked, “There’s no crowd in Dubai because it’s hot, and fans know the stadium lacks world-class cooling spray facilities like Cuttack.”
- Another wrote, “Indians are locals in Dubai, but weekdays mean almost zero attendance. Stop blaming the host nation for this.”
- A more critical comment read, “The stadium is empty for the India match. Aren’t Indians supposed to be running cricket worldwide? Even with a half-day in the UAE, the turnout is poor.”
The Heat vs. Cricket Passion
Dubai’s excruciating heat might have been the primary deterrent, but the lack of excitement around this particular match also hints at other factors. Indian cricket matches are known for their electric atmosphere, yet the IND vs BAN game failed to draw the usual frenzy.
Meanwhile, in Delhi
Back home, Kohli’s Ranji Trophy return at the Arun Jaitley Stadium was met with enthusiasm. Fans packed the stands to witness the cricketing maestro back in action, showcasing the unmatched love Indians have for their favorite stars, even in domestic matches.
Bangladesh Struggles on the Pitch
As the game unfolded, Bangladesh faced challenges on the field, managing just 119/5 in 32 overs. Jaker Ali and Towhid Hridoy were at the crease, trying to stabilize the innings for the Bangla Tigers.
Cricket Army Awaits Answers
The contrasting crowd reactions between Kohli’s Ranji return and the IND vs BAN Champions Trophy opener highlight the importance of fan engagement and accessibility. Is it the heat, the scheduling, or something else entirely?
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