Champions Trophy: Cricket fans in Dubai await India-Sri Lanka clash

As India plan to take on Sri Lanka in the second semi-finals of the Champions trophy in Cardiff, UK, this afternoon,  cricket fans from both countries are gearing up for the  showdown.

Although the event is not as big as the world cup, yet there is no dearth of enthusiastic fans who are eager to leave early from work. Moreover, the weekend factor will add in to many employees leaving early to watch the match on television. Also expect restaurants and hotels to organize special live telecast.

“India will win the match comfortably,” says M Adarsh, a graphic designer in Dubai Media City. The team has emerged stronger after the recent IPL and, “Expect us to even win the cup,” he adds.

Sri Lankan fans are however confident that their players will pull up their act together on a crucial day. “If we play well and bowl according to plan we can restrict the Indians. The performance of Kulasekara and Malinga will be crucial,” says N Dananjaya.

A couple of Pakistani nationals Emirates 247 spoke to said they were rooting for a Sri Lankan win. “India is a strong team. But I am supporting the underdogs,” said Rizwan Iftikar.

Many Sri Lankans and Indians said they could leave home early to watch the match. “It is a Thursday afternoon. I might leave home early, if my boss agrees,” says J Gunaseekara.

However many others said they may not after all bother much. “There is quite a bit of work. No way can I afford to go home early to watch a match,” says John Kurien a salesman.

The winner of the semi finals today will take on England in the finals that will be played on Sunday.

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