Sharmistha Gooptu in Birmingham
When we waited this morning for the rain to stop, then for the match to start and again as the rain came, the conversation around me had veered around to the hand of God and wagers. An English journalist said to his colleague: ‘Somebody’s prayers are being answered’ – that, with rain, there would be the possibility of a draw. Another person seated right next to me bet somebody on the phone ten dollars if it was a draw.
But the prayers of hundreds of Indian fans overturned that one, and though there was an atmospheric formation and overcast skies after lunch, the rain never come. Bharat Mata, Ganapati Bappa, and other celestial presences saved our day! Even as I write this, the shankh [conch] is blaring from the stands.
I have been fortunate to see history being made here at Edgbaston. And again, the chants of Bharat Mata ki Jai rose from the stands. Today was a day of Indian support in its full glory for their side, and fans had draped the stands in the tricolour. At every ball, as the match drew closer to an Indian win, the crowd erupted imploring their heroes to not make them wait more. The final moments were like the slow savouring of a piece of hundred per cent desi and homemade confectionary, having waited ever so long for it. You know the win is imminent, and you are now loving the last moments of what you know is now certain, and of being part of history in the making.
The eruption of joy, the hugs and handshakes will be remembered forever, especially for a new brigade under a new captain that’s fought and found its place. And now, as I finish this piece, Gautam Gambhir strolls on to the almost-empty ground and walks up to the pitch to have a word with the men watering it. He has his back to the press box, but his smile is written all over him! And then, one last time, the captain walks on to the field where he and his men made history. Shubman Gill enters the empty ground, walks a few paces as if still soaking it all in, turns to the almost-empty stands and the few supporters who have lingered, and raises his hand.
Thank you, Edgbaston!
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