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PIX: Cricket fans back in the stands in India

Last updated on: February 13, 2021 17:13 IST

Fans settle down in the stands at the M A Chidambaram stadium, in Chennai, on Saturday, before the start of play on Day 1 of the second Test between India and England.

IMAGE: Fans settle down in the stands at the M A Chidambaram stadium, in Chennai, on Saturday, before the start of play on Day 1 of the second Test between India and England. Photograph: BCCI

Fans made their way back to an Indian cricket stadium after almost a year on Day 1 of the second Test between India and England, at the MA Chidambaram stadium, in Chennai, on Saturday.

With international cricket returning to India, the second Test of the four-match series is the first time that fans have been allowed to attend, considering the ever-improving COVID-19 situation in the country.

IMAGE: Fans sin the stands at the M A Chidambaram stadium, in Chennai. Photograph: BCCI

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association announced protocols for allowing the entry of 15,000 fans for the match, which included not allowing anyone who shows symptoms of Covid-19.

Rohit delighted the fans with his brilliant stroke-play in the morning session.

IMAGE: Rohit Sharma delighted the fans with his brilliant stroke-play in the morning session. Photograph: BCCI

Rohit Sharma provided fans plenty of entertainment on the opening day as he stroked 161 -- hitting 18 fours and two sixes, to put the hosts in control.

Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane made a solid 67 as India finished the opening day on 300/6 on a pitch offering a lot of assistance to the spinners.

Fans make their way to their seats.

IMAGE: The Bharat Army takes prime position as fans make their way to their seats. Photograph: BCCI

"Delectable drive from @ImRo45. Applause from #TeamIndia skipper @imVkohli. A loud cheer from the Chepauk crowd," tweeted BCCI.

Former India players VVS Laxman and Wasim Jaffer welcomed the return of spectators to the stadium.

Sudhir Chaudhary, India's most passionate cricket fan, waves the tricolour at Chepauk

IMAGE: Sudhir Chaudhary, India's most passionate cricket fan, waves the tricolour at Chepauk. Photograph: BCCI

"Glad Fans are back in the stadium for the 2nd #IndvEng test in Chennai. They are the biggest stakeholders and an integral part of our sport and I expect them to make a massive difference. Good toss to win for India and hope they make it count by scoring big in the 1st innings," Laxman tweeted.

"Very happy to see fans back at the Chepauk. The fans are the heartbeat of our sport. Indian cricket wouldn't be as big as it is today if not for the constant support of passionate fans. #INDvsENG," said Jaffer.