BANGALORE: Although IPL-5 has been witnessing enthusiastic crowds as well as unfailing participation of the fans, cheering any team and if the local boys, the Royal Challengers Bangalore, one sees the stands filled up with jostling, young and energetic spectators. However, the only words that were heard in the stadium on Tuesday was about tickets, RCB and KKR. Virat Kohli, Jacques Kalis and Dilshan were hot favourites among the fans.
Bangaloreans, well-known for their unflaying support that they extend to the teams, were seen buying flags of their favourite team, getting their face painted and were also seen in T-shirts of the local team.
Large number of people were lined up near the ticket counters, hoping to get an opportunity to watch the match live in the stadium. Tickets priced between ` 330, Bagpiper Standard View (G) to Rs 55,000 Black Dog Pavilion (P2) were sold off completely to all those who had the zeal to catch the match live. But most enthusiasts bought the Mc Dowell Best View (B) tickets which cost Rs 1,100.
When City Express interacted with the supporters, they spoke about their interest and excitement. Lavanya H V, who supported RCB said, “We bought the tickets three days ago and hence, we didn’t have to hurry at the last minute. Bangalore has no dearth of audience unlike other cities in the country. Hence, it is better to book tickets in advance, or one has to face a disappointing situation.”
Extending support to the KKR team, Kavya S P, a student who witnessed the game said, “I am a die-hard fan of Shah Rukh Khan and Kallis. I would love to watch all the matches that KKR plays in the city.”