Asian Champions Trophy: Embracing the rival, in Chennai fashion | Hockey News

CHENNAI: About half-an-hour before the start of the big-ticket India-Pakistan match in the Asian Champions Trophy, youngsters, seated in the stands that were close to the team dugouts, requested Pakistan assistant coach Rehan Butt for a photograph. He duly obliged and put a smile on their faces.

They might have not watched Butt weave his magic on the field during his heyday but did not want to miss a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The fact that he is from the other side of the border did not matter one bit. Much like the young fans, the rest of the capacity crowd gave the Pakistan team a rousing reception in the build-up to the game.Soon after the end of the Pakistan national anthem, the fans came up with a huge round of applause. But the mood completely changed the moment the action began. The spectators were fully behind Harmanpreet Singh & Co. and showed in the very first minute where their loyalties lied.
“Hockey is India’s sport, so we only want our team to win,” said Corona Stephens, who was accompanied by her husband Raymond, a former South Central Railway hockey player. “I have great hopes that India will win the championship,” Raymond chipped in.
For the first time in the tournament, the stands were absolutely packed. The strong security cover, the huge contingent of dignitaries that included chief minister MK Stalin and ace Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, the wave of India tri-colours flying around, the music – it all made for a party to remember for everyone present.

Former India player Mohammed Riaz, in attendance at the venue, said that there is a section of fans who appreciate the touring teams. “During my playing days, the crowd behaved a bit differently. These days, fans come to enjoy the matches,” Riaz told TOI.
It probably stems from the fact that the Chennai crowd has always been sporting – be it in cricket or hockey. The standing ovation for the Pakistan cricket team that beat India in a Test match in 1999 is still considered by Wasim Akram as the best ovation that he has ever received in an away venue.
“We always had a knowledgeable crowd and that reflects in the way they react. Even if India get all the support, there is serious appreciation for the rival, even if it’s Pakistan,” Riaz said.