The craze of cricket in India is unparalleled. Even during the bilateral series, fans make their presence felt at the stadium. People come to the stadiums to watch Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and other batters score runs for their side. But during the 3rd ODI between India and Sri Lanka, the Stadium at Thiruvananthapuram was seen half empty even during a Sunday day-night game.
Statement of the Sports Minister
Sports minister V Abdurahiman made a controversial statement that created a stir amongst people. Minister Abdurahiman, on January 9, said,
“Those starving need not go and watch the game.” The entertainment tax on the ticket price was increased to 12 percent.
Opposition leader VD Satheesan replied back to his comments saying that the Sports minister should not question the self esteem of the Malayalis.
“The Sports Minister said those who are starving should not come to watch the game. The game is taking place in front of an empty gallery. Don’t question the self-esteem of Malayalis, at least from now”,
he wrote on Facebook.
The people boycotted the match as a form of protest against the Sports Minister. Yuvraj Singh also tweeted his concern about the half empty stadium at Thiruvananthapuram. He congratulated Shubhman Gill for his hundred and questioned whether ODI Cricket is dying.
Yuvaraj Singh tweeted, “Well played @ShubmanGill hopefully goes on to make a 💯 @imVkohli batting at the other end looking Solid ! But concern for me half empty stadium ? Is one day cricket dying ?”
India won the match by 317 runs and completed a clean sweep over Sri Lanka.
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