Pune is abuzz with cricket fever as the MCA stadium gears up to host the much-anticipated Cricket World Cup match between India and Bangladesh on October 19, marking the return of the World Cup to Pune after 27 years.
A Cricketing Hiatus in Pune
The last international cricket match in Pune was a T20 showdown between India and Sri Lanka on January 5, 2023. Despite the MCA stadium’s reputation as a top-tier cricket venue, it has played host to fewer international matches compared to iconic stadiums like Chepauk in Chennai, Wankhede in Mumbai, and Eden Gardens in Kolkata. While the Indian Premier League (IPL) has graced the stadium occasionally, international matches have been a rare occurrence.
Frustration Brews Among Fans
Cricket enthusiasts in Pune have been eagerly awaiting the return of international cricket but have been met with a sense of dissatisfaction. Many have congregated near the MCA Stadium in the hopes of securing tickets for the upcoming World Cup match. However, what they might not realize is that tickets for these matches are exclusively available online.
Online-Only Ticketing: A Point of Contention
This has led to frustration among fans who have directed their ire towards the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA), alleging that cricket tickets are seemingly inaccessible or are being kept from them.
The Discontent Grows
The MCA Cricket Stadium in Pune is slated to host five World Cup matches, with the India vs. Bangladesh match being the first on the list. Following this match, teams from around the world will compete in Pune.
Many cricket aficionados have voiced their displeasure at being unable to secure tickets for the India vs. Bangladesh match online. In response, they’ve flocked to the stadium area, hoping to purchase tickets at the gate. However, the stadium offers no on-site ticket sales, relying solely on online platforms.
Ticket Black Market Concerns
Troubling reports have surfaced, hinting at a possible black market for tickets. Allegations of tickets initially priced at a modest ₹1200 being resold at exorbitant rates have raised concerns. This not only impacts the fans but also reflects poorly on both the BCCI and the MCA, as fans express their disappointment over the situation.
