Quetta, Peshawar wake up to anticipation on match day

QUETTA/PESHAWAR: As moments of the final match are nearing, the atmosphere in cities — Quetta and Peshawar— of the participating teams is becoming electrifying.

In Quetta, preparations for screening the match at sports grounds is under way so that people sitting in the city can watch the match, feeling the enthusiasm that would be echoing in Lahore at Gaddafi Stadium.

There are two places in the city where the Balochistan government has made arrangements. One is Nawab Akbar Bugti Cricket Stadium, while the other is the football ground of Government Special High School.

"I have invited all my friends to watch cricket in my house," a young man in Quetta tells Geo News. "Arrangements have also been made for dinner."

Locals play street cricket in Quetta

On the under hand, unable to hold their excitement, children in Peshawar have come out on the streets, playing cricket until the actual game begins.

Given the advantage of Sunday, adults also have time to celebrate.   

While talking to Geo News, a local says he is hopeful that Peshawar Zalmi will win the match.

However, there are others who are generally pleased for cricket to return home. "Whichever team plays well, will win," says another local. "The series of victory tells us our team, Khpal will win."

Preparations for match screening are also under way in Peshawar, at universities and colleges. 

However, people of Peshawar are worried about Shahid Afridi's injury, wishing he would have been part of the final match. 

The match between Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta gladiators will be played at the stadium in Lahore, where people from both the cities have flown as well.