Hyderabad’s Uppal stadium turns sea of blue as city hosts international cricket after two years

Fans cheering for India during its fourth T20 match against West Indies at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal, Hyderabad, on Wednesday. | Photo Credit: NAGARA GOPAL

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.