Guwahati celebrates India's Champions Trophy win with enthusiasm

Guwahati: It was a ‘Super Sunday' on offer for the people of Guwahati as India triumphed over New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final in Dubai.

Since morning, cricket fever had gripped the city with student unions of Gauhati University and Cotton University arranging public screening in their respective campuses. Some residents also made a similar arrangement for the local communities to watch the match together.

As the game progressed, tension in the air became was palpable with New Zealand winning the toss and opting to bat first. With the Kiwis setting Team India a target of 252 in 50 overs, the city's normal activities came to a virtual standstill as residents remained completely glued to the match proceedings.

The cricket club of Gauhati University, managed by its students union, arranged large screens for the live screening across two different locations on the campus for the students, as well as for the public. As India's chase unfolded, the students began to anticipate another India win with bated breath. GU student Manjeet Choudhury, said, "India losing the toss and New Zealand dominating the first 10 overs made me a bit worried. However, tight bowling from Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav brought India back."

Having lost the final in 2017, India's win was received with much fanfare and celebration.

Besides the universities, the city also witnessed live screenings arranged by local residents. Rabindra Deka, a cricket enthusiast from Kharguli said, "We had come out together to see India win and it was worth it. The live screening made it all the more special, with Team India achieving the target." Another resident of Lalganesh, Partha Pratim Haloi, said, "We were eagerly waiting to see the team win. Our team has some good batsmen who took us to victory."

Gauhati University registrar Utpal Sarma also joined with the students during the live screening. "The enthusiasm among the students is remarkable. It has fostered a sense of unity and shared celebration. The successful screening marked a memorable sporting evening for the university."