October 24, 2021 — India loses the T20 World Cup match to arch-rival Pakistan. Cut to August 28, 2022 — the two teams are all set for a face-off in Asia Cup. Fans from the city tell My Kolkata about their hopes and expectations before they grab their seat for the big show at 7pm.
Manomoy Bhattacharya
I really hope India wins this and wins it big. I hope to see positive body language and attitude from the Indian players. I do not have expectations from any particular Indian player, but I want them to shine as a team.
— Manomoy Bhattacharya, singer
Biswagourab Mitra
I am confident of an Indian win. The bowling strength of Pakistan is not what it used to be. Also, Shaheen Shah Afridi not in the team for his injury, Imad Wasim is missing and Hasan Ali has only joined at the last minute. I think these factors might work in India’s favour.
Biswagourab Mitra, economist
Sumiran Banerjee
I am eagerly waiting for the match. Of the nine T20 matches India and Pakistan have played, India has won seven. So, though India did lose its last match against Pakistan at the T20 World Cup in 2021, I am hoping that India will be pin down Pakistan this time. It will be a tough fight between the traditional rivals.
— Sumiran Banerjee, actor and filmmaker
Utsav Bhanja
I am going to a friend’s house to watch the match with my gang. We have all bought Indian jerseys and arranged for food and drinks. After all, it’s an India-Pakistan tie and we are expecting an exciting match.
Utsav Bhanja, entrepreneur
Subha Bhattacharyya