Awesome experience as Sonia, Rahul drop by

The roar of 18,000 screaming fans was deafening. Such was the atmosphere inside the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium that to term the celebrations as cheering would be a gross understatement.

The roar of 18,000 screaming fans was deafening. Such was the atmosphere inside the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium that to term the celebrations as cheering would be a gross understatement.

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Even the Congress president Sonia Gandhi and son Rahul, who sat in the general stand to soak in the atmosphere, would vouch for the utter magic that engulfed the hockey stadium. Just for a brief moment, the crowd was awed by the presence of the political icons of the country.

For some of the spectators who had begun lining up as early as three hours before the start, it was an experience worth the effort. “I came for the India-Pakistan match during the World Cup as well. But the do-or-die situation added energy to this match like I haven't seen ever,” said 22-year-old Meenakshi Hazra.

Another group of students was equally enthusiastic. “Of course it was electric, but it was because of the scoreline and the way our boys played. Even cricket matches between the two sides don't evoke the same emotions anymore.”

Accredited persons denied entry

It was really surprising and shocking for many accredited card holders, including some from the work force, volunteers, functional area and media when they were denied entry to the main arena where the India-Pakistan game was to be played.

This happened because the CGOC had announced the event as Prime Event Limitation at the eleventh hour. The card holders were allowed to enter the stadium from the main gate, but were denied entry to the main stadium thus leaving many stranded.