Cricket fans flock to Eden Gardens to see Pakistan team practice ahead of England match

KOLKATA: Cricket fans flocked to Kolkata's Eden Gardens stadium to catch a glimpse of the Pakistan cricket team as they practice ahead of their World Cup 2023 match against England on Saturday (November 11).

Out of the 18-member squad, only three players didn't attend today's "optional" training session including Imam-ul-Haq, Muhammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed as the team prepares to take on the defending champions.

With eight points the Men in Green are competing with New Zealand and Afghanistan for a spot in the semis with the match between Sri Lanka and the Kiwis being crucial for Pakistan's progression into the knockout stage.

The team’s position in the tournament remains in contention to reach the top four following its not-so-satisfactory performances through the World Cup.

Fans, however, were excited to see the Green Shirts in action during the practice and spoke about their favourites in the team.

A cricket-crazy fan said he wanted to see Pakistan captain Babar Azam score well.

“He is a very good cricketer. He bats very well and his attitude towards batting is something I really like,” he said, speaking with Geo News.

When asked how he’s feeling looking at Babar practice so up close.

“It feels really nice. I can’t express how happy I am,” the fan said, looking visibly excited.

Another fan, who is a young right-hand batter and off-spinner, said he came to the stadium to watch Rizwan practice.

“I really like his batting and wicketkeeping,” he said.

He added that if given the chance to meet Rizwan, he would ask him for tips on improving his batting talent.

An admirer of the Green Shirts said he couldn’t believe seeing a national team practice before their eyes.

“This is a very good opportunity for us to watch them and learn. There are several good batters that could teach a lot to the young generation here,” he said.

A young fan said he will cheer for Pakistan on November 11 in its match against England. He also wished for the Pakistani side to reach the semis and then finals against India as well. “If the final takes place between India and Pakistan, it will be historical.”

An elderly fan said it will be exciting to watch India and Pakistan play a semi-final match in the Eden Gardens.