The India-Pakistan clash at the Women’s T20 World Cup in Dubai saw an overwhelming turnout of 15,935 spectators, setting a new record for the highest number of attendees at a league match in an ICC women’s event.
The match saw the largest crowd for a women’s India-Pakistan game, surpassing the previous record set during their T20 World Cup match in South Africa last year. The UAE’s expatriate demographics played a key role in the large turnout, with Indians making up 38% and Pakistanis 17% of the population.
India’s win in electrifying atmosphere
India won the match comfortably in the 19th over. Harmanpreet and co. chased down the target of 106 runs before the 20th over. The tension increased towards the end as India needed 26 runs from 27 balls. The Pakistani fans waved their flags fervently, but when India secured victory, the stadium erupted with chants of Vande Mataram. The support from the Indian crowd was acknowledged by Arundhati Reddy, who played a crucial role in the win with her 3/19 performance.
Pakistan’s captain enjoyed the huge crowd
Despite the crowd’s heavy Indian presence, Pakistan captain Fatima Sana appreciated the support her team received. “The whole crowd was cheering for India, but we enjoyed playing in front of such a big audience,” she said, highlighting the excitement surrounding the match.
ICC’s choice of UAE as venue helped them
The decision to host the Women’s T20 World Cup in the UAE has proven successful, with high attendance despite concerns over the heat and last-minute venue changes. Spectators’ strong presence in Dubai and Sharjah has added to the excitement of the tournament, validating the ICC’s decision to bring the event to the region.
