JEDDAH, 22 March 2004 — The excitement of the cricket supporters was intense at a local Jeddah restaurant yesterday, as India and Pakistan battled it out in the fourth ODI of the series.
There was unanimous feeling of respect and friendliness among supporters of both sides. “This is a friendly match that unites both nations. We will all party together at the beach later, regardless of the result,” Abrar Hussein, a Pakistan supporter, told Arab News as he watched the game. The crowd of over 60 spectators were 70 percent Pakistani and 30 percent Indian. An Indian supporter, Saeed Jameel, said: “The situation is a bit tense because we have a few wickets. But that isn’t a problem. We will all drink Pepsi together later and celebrate.” Many of those watching the all-day event had taken time off work. Taher Mahmoud, reluctantly broke away from watching the match to answer Arab News’ questions. “I hope Pakistan wins,” he said. “In a couple of days will be the final match that will determine the outcome of the series. I took the week off work to devote all my attention to the competition.” The pavilion, sponsored by Arab News, was hailed as a success by both the hosts of the event and by the die-hard supporters who were grateful to have a venue where politics played no part.
