Ranchi: In the hometown of former India captain MS Dhoni, cricket is never just a game — and on Sunday night, it was nothing short of a festival. As Hardik Pandya bowled Pakistan’s Usman Tariq to seal a thrilling India–Pakistan clash, Ranchi erupted in jubilation, blending cricket fever with the spiritual fervour of Maha Shivratri.Even before the final wicket fell, the city had begun to buzz. From roadside tea stalls to bustling eateries, residents huddled around mobile screens, tracking every delivery of the high-voltage encounter. At Albert Ekka Chowk, Lalpur, and Chutia, groups of young fans gathered, Tricolour in hand, waiting for the moment to celebrate.
When Ishan Kishan launched a flurry of boundaries, cheers echoed through neighbourhoods and firecrackers lit up the night sky. Bars and restaurants filled quickly, with groups of friends turning the match into a shared spectacle. “The second innings was gripping. The way our bowlers dominated made it clear we had the upper hand,” said Manish Kumar, amid chants of “India, India.”The drama of the contest kept emotions on edge. An early setback and the quick fall of wickets in the middle overs briefly silenced celebrations. “When Pandya and Tilak got out back-to-back, it felt like the momentum had shifted,” said Rohit Singh, a cricket enthusiast. “But that’s the thrill of an India–Pakistan match — it keeps you guessing.”Amid the sporting drama, temples across the city remained packed with devotees marking Maha Shivratri. Many offered prayers not only for spiritual blessings but also for India’s victory. On their way home, devotees paused to check scores, seamlessly weaving faith and fandom into one evening. And when the final wicket confirmed India’s triumph, Ranchi burst into spontaneous celebration. Streets filled with dancing crowds, patriotic slogans rent the air, and firecrackers crackled late into the night — a city rejoicing in cricket, devotion and pride all at once.
