Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) secretary Kamlesh Pisal apologized to fans for the insufficient drinking water facilities on Day 1 of the India vs New Zealand Test in Pune on October 24. This apology followed a protest from spectators who voiced their frustration about the lack of water on a hot day.
India dismissed New Zealand for 259 runs in 79.1 overs after losing the toss. Off-spinner Washington Sundar delivered an impressive performance with 7 wickets for 59 runs. By the end of the day, India was 16-1 after 11 overs.
The day’s events were overshadowed by complaints regarding the drinking water situation, with frustrated fans chanting slogans against the MCA, according to The Economic Times.
“I sincerely apologize to all the fans for the inconvenience caused today, especially due to water shortage. We have already addressed it and I assure you that from tomorrow until the end of the game, free drinking water will be supplied in every stand without any problem.” Pisal was quoted as saying by The Hindu.
The report noted that by lunchtime on Thursday, the free water kiosks in all the stands had run dry. Additionally, many stands lacked shade, exacerbating the situation.
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Some media reports alleged that, amidst the chaos, unknown vendors were selling half-liter bottles at inflated prices. In response, Pisal stated:
“The MCA has not authorized anyone to sell water, so we are getting to the bottom of the issue. And the supply at two or three points in the North Stand was interrupted since the MCA tried to serve chilled water to spectators considering the October heat.”
Meanwhile, as images of protesting fans spread online, many took to social media to criticize the MCA for not providing basic amenities.
India aims to capitalize on a strong start on Day 2 at MCA Stadium in Pune
Regarding the Test match, India began well by dismissing New Zealand for under 260 runs on Day 1. However, the hosts lost captain Rohit Sharma for a duck, bowled out by a sharp delivery from Tim Southee.
At the end of Day 1, Shubman Gill was on 10 runs and Yashasvi Jaiswal on six. India trails New Zealand by 243 runs and aims to secure a substantial first-innings lead to level the three-match series.
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