Anticipation is at a fever pitch ahead of tomorrow’s One Day International (ODI) between India and Afghanistan at the iconic HPCA Stadium. In a unique confluence of cricket and spirituality, former Union Minister and MP Anurag Thakur — accompanied by Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association officials — paid obeisance to the revered Lord Indrunag, seeking blessings for the successful conduct of the upcoming fixture.
Special prayers and rituals were performed at the sacred Indrunag temple, where generations of devotees have revered Lord Indrunag as the divine guardian of weather and protection. Seeking His blessings before major international matches has become a cherished custom in Dharamsala, seamlessly blending Himachal’s rich cultural heritage with the global spectacle of cricket.
MP Anurag Thakur and HPCA office-bearers offering prayers to the Indrunag deity in Dharamsala.
In attendance were HPCA Vice-President Vijay Bhandari, Secretary Manuj Sharma, Treasurer Vikram Thakur, Joint Secretary Vishal Sharma, and former Secretary Avneesh Parmar, among other members. Meanwhile, excitement continues to soar as cricket enthusiasts welcomed former Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, vice-captain Shubman Gill, and several other Indian stars who had already arrived in town.
Recent snowfall over the majestic Dhauladhar range has transformed the mountains into a pristine white amphitheatre. The lush green outfield, encircled by snow-clad peaks, reinforces Dharamsala’s reputation as one of the most picturesque cricket venues in the world.
Afghanistan cricket team skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi (left) and Rahmat Shah during practice session in Dharamsala.
HPCA Secretary Manuj Sharma stated, “With the blessings of Lord Indrunag, all preparations are complete. The association looks forward to hosting yet another memorable international encounter.”
Calling the Dharamsala stadium one of Himachal Pradesh’s greatest global ambassadors, MP Anurag Thakur said, “The venue has evolved from humble beginnings into one of the world’s most admired cricket destinations. International matches have generated employment, boosted tourism, and brought immense pride to the state. The HPCA has consistently delivered world-class events, and tomorrow’s ODI will be another memorable chapter in this remarkable journey.”
Thakur added that hosting such prestigious fixtures remains a matter of immense pride for Dharamsala, promising an unforgettable experience for both players and spectators.
