PESHAWAR, March 30: Watching the high-tension Pakistan-India clash in the Cricket World Cup semi-final was the biggest preoccupation for people on Wednesday and as expected routine life in the city came to a standstill and almost all cricket lovers including men, women and children were seen glued to their TV screens.

“We watched the game till the last ball though it was clear almost three overs before the end of match that Indian team had got a firm grip over the contest,” said the game lovers.

While some followers of cricket were critical of individual performances of Pakistani players others accepted the reality of game with an open heart. Hot arguments were exchanged between people seeing the match in groups, but at the end of the day they dispersed in a state of disbelief.

“Overall, I don't think our batsmen performed well; some players committed mistakes that were avoidable. Wickets falling at regular interval exposed the whole batting line of Pakistan,” said a spectator.

Earlier in the day, even the busy bazaars were giving a deserted look. Shopkeepers had made own arrangements for watching the match in their shops and shopping malls.

In some commercial areas, banners were displayed to inform customers that shops would be closed after 2pm, the starting time of the match.

In some localities of the city such as Saddar and University Town big screens were installed which attracted the young and old alike to enjoy watching the match in groups.

In the afternoon, traffic was very thin on even those roads, which are known for big traffic jams.

Because it was India-Pakistan match, people not knowing about the ABC of cricket were seen concerned about the result of the match.

Keeping in view the special interest of students in the game, schools and colleges in the city had declared half day. Both the federal and provincial governments had also announced half day for all the employees to enjoy this special occasion.

Professionals such as doctors, journalists, policemen, rescuers, etc who have to work even on holidays, had also ensured not to miss the historic match. Some beat policemen were seen peeping into one shop or the other to catch a glimpse of the match and keep a track of the situation.Youngsters in cricket team uniform and some with Pakistani flag painted on their faces were seen holding national flag in their hands and watching the match on big screen.

Besides, frequent SMSs were exchanged earlier in the day, requesting people to offer special prayers for victory of the national team. Some people arranged get-togethers of friends and relatives by inviting them to watch the match at their homes or workplaces. — APP