Patriotic loyalties are at their peak as people on both sides of the border throng in front of flickering TV screens to watch what is, perhaps, the most politically charged derby. A cricket match between India and Pakistan continues to be one of sport’s biggest draws and bitterest rivalries. While this was happening, news broke that several Kashmiri students were allegedly attacked in the northern state of Punjab for celebrating Pakistan’s win. Since then, several other people – all Muslims – have been arrested, with some facing charges under a draconian anti-terror law for speaking, writing or sharing messages in support of Pakistan.
World Cup Willie, the mascot for the 1966 competition, was the first World Cup mascot. World Cups feature official match balls specially designed for each tournament. After Slazenger produced the ball for the 1966 World Cup Adidas became the official supplier to FIFA. Each World Cup also has an official song, which have been performed by artists ranging from Shakira to Will Smith.
Brazil was the only South American team to compete in both. The 1942 and 1946 competitions, which Germany and Brazil sought to host, were cancelled due to World War II and its aftermath. At the 1908 Summer Olympics in London, football became an official competition. Planned by The Football Association , England’s football governing body, the event was for amateur players only and was regarded suspiciously as a show rather than a competition.
New Zealand are one hit away from winning the match now. Well, New Zealand had only 111 runs to chase and they did that with utmost ease. Their openers, Martin Guptill and Daryl Mitchell started well but just as the former was looking to tee off he perished. Daryl Mitchell though carried on his merry way and he found boundaries at will in the middle.
For the first time since England’s Tour of India in the first quarter of 2021, Hardik Pandya is back to bowling in an international match. A short ball and Williamson ramps it over wicketkeeper Pant for 4. Well, long story short; India never turned up and New Zealand. There is no other way to describe this heavy defeat for India. As for the Kiwis, they showed signs of confidence during the Pakistan game and today, they got the job done and how.
