Hyderabad’s Uppal Stadium will turn blue after two years as the city hosts international cricket
Fans cheer for India during their fourth T20 match against West Indies at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal, Hyderabad on Wednesday. | Photo credit: NAGARA GOPAL
A sea of blue filled the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Uppal on Wednesday as thousands of fans turned up to watch India take on the West Indies, marking the return of international cricket to Hyderabad after two years.
In contrast to the sea of orange that characterizes Indian Premier League (IPL) matches with Sunrisers Hyderabad, the stadium was awash in blue as spectators arrived wearing Indian team jerseys, carrying flags and cheering for the home side.
As the sun began to set, crowds gathered outside the stadium, many of whom had arrived by public transport and alighted near the venue. Despite the traffic restrictions, vehicular movement continued around the stadium as spectators made their way to the entrance gates. The match also attracted people who were still hoping to secure tickets.
At several gates, spectators were seen asking for extra tickets for friends and family after only managing to purchase a limited number online. “I didn’t know about the first phase of online ticket sales and missed it. I tried to buy tickets for ₹900 during the second phase but could only get two while I needed four. So I’m trying my luck here,” said Supreeth, who was looking for more tickets.
“We wanted to see the Indian team play in Hyderabad for a long time. When you come to the India match, it’s just a different feeling,” said Shekhar, who came with his two children.
Other spectators hoped that the return of international cricket would lead to more matches being allocated to the city. Seema, who has been looking forward to the match ever since the tournament schedule was announced, urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider Hyderabad for the next international games.
“Ever since the schedule of this tournament was announced and we saw Hyderabad as a venue, we were happy and looking forward to participate in the match. We request BCCI to hold more international matches here,” she said.
Adding a cultural dimension to the sporting opportunities, the Telangana Tourism Department organized a special program at the stadium to showcase the state’s cultural heritage during the India-West Indies match. Bathukamma was on the agenda with traditional floral arrangements highlighting the festival’s connection with nature, community and local traditions. Folk artists also performed during the event.
Published – 15 Oct 2026 0:16 IST