HYDERABAD: Heavy rains lashed Hyderabad on Thursday afternoon, causing significant flooding and traffic snarls across the city. Despite the Indian Meteorological Department’s (IMD) warning and advice to stay indoors, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) fans defied the odds, showing up in large numbers to support their team in the IPL game against Gujarat Titans at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.
The rainfall, which reached over 51 mm by 4 pm, led to difficult travel conditions, with vehicles crawling on the roads. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation’s Director of Enforcement, Vigilance, and Disaster Management shared weather updates on social media, urging citizens to be vigilant and monitor the weather.
Nevertheless, SRH fans remained undeterred. By 9:50 pm, approximately 20,000 fans had made it to the stadium, which has a capacity of around 40,000. A total of 33,871 tickets were scanned for entry, highlighting the significant turnout despite the adverse weather conditions.
Abhishek Sharma shares story of SRH fans
SRH has seen a resurgence in fan support this season, driven by exceptional performances from players like Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klaasen, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Aiden Markram, under the leadership of captain Pat Cummins. This renewed energy has revitalized the Orange Army, with fans like Ravi and Kranthi Kumar expressing their long-awaited enthusiasm and support for the team.
SRH assistant coach Simon Helmot praised the fans, calling them the team’s “13th impact player.” He noted the noticeable increase in vocal support and attendance compared to previous seasons.
Despite the persistent rains causing the match to be abandoned, resulting in Hyderabad securing a spot in the playoffs and eliminating Delhi Capitals, the fans’ unwavering support symbolizes the newfound hope and excitement surrounding SRH’s potential repeat of their 2016 title triumph.
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