Hyderabad’s Uppal stadium turns sea of blue as city hosts international cricket after two years
International cricket returned to Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium after a two-year hiatus as India faced the West Indies. Thousands of fans filled the stadium, creating a vibrant atmosphere and prompting calls for the BCCI to host more international matches in the city.
Why it matters
The return of major sporting events to regional hubs boosts local tourism and strengthens the cultural significance of the city in the national sports landscape.
A sea of blue filled the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal on Wednesday as thousands of fans turned up to watch India take on the West Indies, marking the return of international cricket to Hyderabad after a gap of two years.
Unlike the sea of orange that characterises Indian Premier League (IPL) matches featuring Sunrisers Hyderabad, the stadium was awash with blue as spectators arrived wearing Indian team jerseys, carrying flags and cheering for the home side.
As the sun began to set, crowds gathered outside the stadium, with many arriving by public transport and getting off near the venue. Despite traffic restrictions, vehicular movement continued around the stadium as spectators made their way towards the entry gates. The match also drew people who were still hoping to secure tickets.
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