Kartikeya Bhatia (27) and Aashish Khullar (37), Indian nationals who live in Boston, drove from Massachusetts to Long Island to watch their home country India play Pakistan. As they marched through the parking lot of the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, they bought jerseys of the opposing teams from the trunk of an SUV belonging to a jersey vendor in the parking lot. Kartikeya took out some cash and bought a large Pakistan jersey for $20. Aashish bought an India jersey. Both were surprised and delighted to see their sport, and that of their country, being showcased on Long Island. Kartikeya and Aashish also spoke excitedly about the long-standing rivalry between India and Pakistan.
“[I’m] “I’m super excited,” Aashish says, “Yeah, it’s kind of cool to actually come and see the stadium. I think it’s the first time I’ve ever seen an international cricket match in a stadium.”
On the India-Pakistan conflict:
“Even people who don’t watch sports watch the games,” says Aashish.
“Even if it’s not about cricket, an India vs Pakistan match is always a cultural affair so it will be good to see it first hand,” Kartikeya added.
Kartikeya was hesitant to predict the outcome of the match, pointing to the unpredictable condition of the pitch at the Nassau County Stadium, which has drawn anger and scrutiny from officials, fans and players alike for its “dangerous” and unpredictable bounce. India in particular are on high alert after captain Rohit Sharma faced injury scare due to the controversial newly constructed pitch.
“I like the famous last words, so I can’t say or predict anything about this pitch either. Apparently, the pitch at this stadium is not very good for batting, so anything could happen really.”
Kartikeya also highlighted the phenomenon of such a major international cricket match being played in New York.
“It’s weird to watch cricket in the whole of America. It’s even weirder on Long Island.”
