10 March 2005	Thursday	28 Muharram 1426

MOHALI, March 9: Motorists in Mohali honk as much as those in Pakistan, the rick shaws are as noisy and the roads quite bumpy, the cops are bullish but the local residents friendly and hospitable.

And hospitality being extended to hundreds of Pakistani fans goes to show that cricket is a great binding force. Although not all of the 3000 odd people who have come here are genuine cricket fans, for the Indians it does not matter.

While residents have thrown their doors open for those finding it difficult to get accommodation in hotels, there are special offers being made for the visiting fans almost everyday - from free meals to free haircuts and even free surgery.

A top hospital close to the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium where the first Test between Pakistan and India is being played has already performed free surgery on 35-year-old Mohammad Sohail Afzal Butt who had complained of abdominal pain while Mohammad Arshad Khan was being treated for a heart ailment.

What's more? A noted eye specialist has offered free treatment to the guests if the need arose.

SPECTATORS

They braved rain that hit Mohali on Wednesday but for the spectators who turned up to watch the second day's play, it was a long wait. Some tried to cover themselves with banners, others took shelter under an elevated television camera stand while still others took refuge underneath billboards as the PCA Stadium does not have covered stands.

After hours of wait, the organizers brought in a prominent singer in a bid to cheer up the spectators and finally the covers were removed at 1.30pm to the relief of the crowd. The 35,000 capacity stadium is considered to be one of the top venues in India and has a lush green outfield and good facilities otherwise.