Kohli’s RCB steals the spotlight in Royals’ backyard, Guwahati goes red | Guwahati News
Guwahati: The city is throbbing with anticipation as the Rajasthan Royals (RR) prepare to clash with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium — their adopted second home. Yet, in a twist that speaks volumes about star power, it’s Virat Kohli and his RCB who seem to be stealing the show.From bustling streets to crowded markets, Guwahati has turned into a sea of red and black, echoing chants for Kohli as the city’s cricket fever reaches a fever pitch.Adding to the electric atmosphere, vendors from outside the state have set up temporary stalls selling a variety of cricket merchandise — jerseys, caps, and more. They reported brisk business, with one clear trend among buyers — an overwhelming demand for Virat Kohli jerseys.“Most of them are asking for Kohli’s jersey. There is a different level of craze for him,” said Biswajit Biswas, who travelled from West Bengal to capitalise on the match-day rush. Despite jerseys of both teams being available, sellers said RCB jerseys — priced between Rs 250 and Rs 300 — sold like hot cakes.Sukumar Sarkar, another vendor, said, “We come here every year because during the IPL season, our income increases.”Many fans, especially youngsters, were seen proudly donning RCB’s red and black colours, reflecting the team’s strong fan base even in Assam. Outside the stadium, fans expressed their admiration for RCB and confidently predicted the match outcome. “I’m a big fan of Virat Kohli, and his team will win against Rajasthan. His presence on the field is electrifying,” said Nishant Baishya, a fan from Noonmati in Guwahati.There were also fans who had travelled from different districts to watch the match. Kuromi Langthasa, who arrived from Dima Hasao district, said she reached the city early in the morning and had been waiting outside the stadium gates. “This is the second time I have come here to watch a match. I just hope RCB takes the victory,” she said.
