From Thrill to Terror: A Firsthand Account of the IPL Match in Dharamshala
Dharamshala: Anticipation Builds for the IPL Clash
As the clock approached 7 PM, a group of friends and relatives arrived at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala, buzzing with excitement for the anticipated IPL showdown between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC).
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains in Himachal Pradesh's Kangra district, the stadium was alive with energy, and fans were eager to cheer on their home team, Punjab Kings.
Delayed Toss Heightens Expectations
A light drizzle postponed the toss, forcing us to huddle under umbrellas, yet our spirits remained high. Finally, at 8:15 PM—75 minutes behind schedule—Punjab Kings' captain Shreyas Iyer opted to bat first, citing the wet conditions and a strategy to set a target. The match commenced at 8:30 PM, reigniting the festive atmosphere.
The Punjab Kings' openers started strong, with Priyansh Arya delivering an impressive performance, scoring 70 runs off just 34 balls, while Prabhsimran Singh contributed with 50 runs.
In a mere 10.1 overs, the team surged to 122/1, boasting nine wickets in hand and a promising momentum that had the crowd electrified. It felt like we were witnessing something extraordinary.
Chaos Erupts: A Sudden Turn of Events
Then, in an instant, everything changed. At 10.1 overs, the stadium's floodlights abruptly went out. Initially, we assumed it was a power failure or perhaps more rain. However, a voice soon echoed through the speakers, instructing spectators to evacuate the stadium immediately due to 'technical reasons.'
Within moments, police sirens pierced the air as law enforcement and military personnel entered the venue. The scene was surreal, and as darkness enveloped the stadium, panic ensued. Families clutched their children tightly, some fans rushed towards the exits while others stood frozen in shock.
Top district police officials were present, coordinating the evacuation with calmness, providing a sense of reassurance amid the chaos. Their efforts were crucial in preventing what could have escalated into a stampede.
Lingering Questions: Should the Match Have Proceeded?
Outside the stadium, confusion reigned. Whispers of missiles, war, and Operation Sindoor filled the air. Reports later surfaced that Pakistani forces had attempted a coordinated attack on 15 Indian sites the night before.
Some missiles were intercepted over Punjab and Jammu, alarmingly close to Dharamshala. The realization of how near danger had come struck us hard.
This led to a pressing question: why was the match allowed to proceed at all? Kangra borders Chamba, which has a history of violence, including the tragic massacre of 35 Hindus by Pakistan-based terrorists in 1998.
With the nation on high alert and credible threats looming, how could authorities justify putting 24,000 lives at risk?
What began as an exhilarating match ended in confusion and fear. While the police and military deserve commendation for averting a larger disaster, accountability for the decision to hold the game in such precarious circumstances is essential.
I attended a cricket match, but left with a stark reminder that no event, no matter how glamorous, is worth risking lives during a national crisis.
Reflections from the Experience
Shruti Puri