The Greatest Cricket Rivalry! #PakvsInd

Hello People

I had intended to write this post yesterday but found myself too emotionally overwhelmed and stunned to do so effectively. As someone supporting and living in Pakistan since I opened my eyes, I'm sure you can understand and relate to why that was the case. The emotions felt so raw that committing any thoughts to paper did not seem appropriate, because we just lost a won match, and I am still too traumatized.

_{Scenes from yesterday's match}

As a seasonal Pakistani cricket fan lol, no match can get me as excited as Pakistan vs India! For us here in Pakistan, cricket is so much more than just a game - it's practically a religion. While we have our issues with political instability. injustice, killings and economic hardships and much more, cricket is truly the one thing that unites our entire nation. When the green shirts take on the blues, everyone from kids to grandparents comes together and roots with equal fervor. Whether you're in a bustling city center or a remote village, the cricket fever knows no bounds.

Now, if you are not a Pakistani, you would be very surprised to know that the cricket fans here in Pakistan wish nothing more than just winning this particular game. I know what some of you might be thinking - isn't it an exaggeration to say we care more about beating India than winning World Cups? Well, as someone who has bled green all my life, let me tell you - there really is no comparison! Of course, lifting the World Cup trophy would be an incredible achievement, but crushing our rivals from across the border...ah, nothing can top that feeling of euphoria and pride. But unfortunately, PCT has not given us that many happy moments and memories.

_{Source: Dawn (end of every Pakistan match)}

Which brings me to yesterday's heart-wrenching performance by our players. As usual, our bowlers brought their A-game with some brilliant moves and strategies. I was confident we had gotten past that initial batting test. But, the pressure seemed to get to our batsmen AS ALWAYS and they faltered, leaving all of us utterly dejected. Scenes at my house involved lots of yelling at the TV mixed with tears and regret - a typical Pakistani household experience!
I wish I could share some scenes from my home as well, but they were not very pretty to capture with Pakistan playing the way it did lol

_{Literally my face the entire match}

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_{One of the few happy moments from yesterdays match}

And the environment during these Pak vs Ind clashes? Nowhere on Earth can compare to the madness and drama in Pakistan. The raw emotions on display from flag-waving fans are truly a sight to behold. You'll find people laughing, crying, shouting in anger and frustration - and in really tense moments, some fans have even been known to smash their TVs! It really is edge-of-the-seat entertainment. The screenings with hundreds and thousands of people gathered to watch Pakistan are absolutely thrilling to be part of.

So in short, while cricket is just a sport for many, for Pakistani fans it's an unparalleled passion. And nothing stimulates our competitive spirit more than going toe-to-toe with Team India. The rivalry is simply unrivaled - now if only our team could find a way to come out on top more often!

Until Next game, or shall I say Until Next Defeat!

By Yours Truly,
@kinzaghauri