Fans act as morale booster, says Indian cricketer Deepti Sharma

Despite playing in front of a half-empty stadium in Mullanpur in their One Day International (ODI) series opener against Australia, Indian cricketer Deepti Sharma dubbed fans as “morale booster”.

During the first ever international match at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium, the attendance stood around one-fourth of the stadium’s total capacity of 38,000. “The presence of fans always boosts morale, but our major focus remains on the game. If fans turn-up in good numbers, it’s always welcome. The people have started following women’s cricket, which is also a big appreciation,” said Deepti, during the pre-match interaction.

Having lost the opener by eight wickets, the Indian team is now scheduled to take on Australia in the second match of the series on September 17.

While efforts were made to attract the audience in good numbers, the footfall was low. “The decline in liking of the ODI format is one of the main reasons for the empty stands. However, the positive words about fans by a team member may encourage them to watch the match from stadium on September 17,” said Harika Kaur, a young cricket enthusiast.

Rain scare

According to the metrological department, the city is likely witness partly cloudy skies with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers on September 17. The match is important for the Indian side, as they look to level the series against the seven-time World champions.

In the case of heavy rains, the stadium can be made available to play within 30 minutes after the showers stop. The last match of the series is scheduled on September 20, in New Delhi.