NEW DELHI, Nov 23: The hype created by Pakistan-India cricket rivalry has certainly overshadowed the legend of Ashes, with fans from Australia and England flowing in to witness the arch-rivals in action.

Dressed in ‘Batman’ and ‘Superman’ attires, two friends – Wayne and Matt – flew all the way from Tokyo, where they are presently based, to watch the ongoing Test between India and Pakistan in New Delhi.

“We live in Tokyo and have especially come here to watch the India-Pakistan encounter, which is now considered equivalent to the Ashes,” said Wayne, an Englishman from London. “We both love watching cricket very much,” quickly asserted the Aussie, Matt.

Interestingly, their comments again reignited the debate fuelled by Pakistan coach Geoff Lawson before the start of the ongoing series, when he described the high-voltage Indo-Pak clash as ‘bigger than the Ashes’.

Asked who they were rooting for in the sub-continent giants’ war, both of them replied: “Undoubtedly India will win. Apart from the entire nation, they got the backing of two superheroes in us.”

They are also big fans of Sachin Tendulkar when they said they are specially waiting to see Sachin in action. “We both are looking forward to watch Sachin’s batting.”

However, in the 22nd over of India’s first innings, Pakistan shed water on their hopes, along with thousands of spectators present at the ground on Friday, when Sachin was caught napping on one by Mohammad Yousuf, while trying for an almost impossible second run.—Agencies

Opinion

Editorial

‘Source of terror’
Updated 29 Mar, 2024

‘Source of terror’

It is clear that going after militant groups inside Afghanistan unilaterally presents its own set of difficulties.
Chipping in
29 Mar, 2024

Chipping in

FEDERAL infrastructure development schemes are located in the provinces. Most such projects — for instance,...
Toxic emitters
29 Mar, 2024

Toxic emitters

IT is concerning to note that dozens of industries have been violating environmental laws in and around Islamabad....
Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...