Deep in the heart of Delhi with its symbols of power, tree-lined roads, dry heat and dodgy air, the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Kotla for the old fans, geared up for Wednesday’s World Cup clash between India and Afghanistan. On Tuesday, the sun beat down on the turf, painters got busy dabbing sponsor logos on the outfield and the public address system cleared its throat with English songs and there was even an impromptu interlude with shades of Arabic music.
The venue, a witness to many a stellar deed with the prime one being Anil Kumble’s ‘Perfect 10’, should help the Indian caravan roll smooth.
Having got past Australia in Chennai, Rohit Sharma’s men start as the obvious favourite but a little statistical detail remains: India and Afghanistan were once locked in a tie in an Asia Cup match at Dubai in 2018.
