Somewhat like the Henman Hill at the Wimbledon, a part of the stadium lawn has been converted into a refreshment zone where spectators can eat, drink and watch the match.

Shanta Prabhakar Kedari, a lady constable at the stadium, said: “I love watching cricket. But when on duty it is not possible. Today, we can watch the action here.”

“It is a picnic-like atmosphere here. There are food stalls, music and cricket for us outside the ground,” added Ashanitin Chaudhary, another lady constable.

Mustakim, a third year B.Com student, who came with a group of friends, said it was a different experience. “If we want we can even watch the match here. There are food stalls, lights and a good atmosphere.”

Thumbs down to Modi

Lalit Modi became the cynosure of all eyes soon after the IPL was launched in 2008. But the IPL commissioner’s image has waned after the ‘Twittergate’ episode.

In a vox pop conducted by HT on Wednesday, a majority wanted Modi to quit from his post. Henal Sejpal, a BA student at the Ruia College, felt Modi should step down to maintain his dignity and respect he commands for making the IPL a success. Ishita Goradia, a fashion designer, said Modi should move out for the sake of Indian cricket.

Sachin Pullar, another cricket aficionado, said: “Modi must realise that his wrongdoings will tarnish the image of Indian cricket. It’s about the credibility of Indian cricket, more than anything else.”

Time is clearly running out for Modi. Though he might get a chance to defend himself when the IPL governing council meets on April 26, cricket lovers have clearly lost faith in him.

It’s all blue here

The DY Patil Stadium was ‘painted’ in blue on Wednesday. With the Mumbai Indians fans far outnumbering the Royal Challengers Bangalore fans, it was but natural that the flags were mostly of one colour — blue. It had happened during MI’s match against the Deccan Chargers in the league stage too.

Home advantage is a big boost for any team. Despite earning the right to play in Bangalore, a freak incident forced the RCB to shift base to Mumbai.

Not the one to lose heart, Kumble will go into the game believing that fortune favours the brave.