Ahmedabad, India: The cricket world was abuzz with excitement as the Pakistan cricket team received a resplendent reception in Ahmedabad, setting the stage for their highly-anticipated clash against arch-rivals India at the illustrious Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, October 14, as part of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023.

Amidst a backdrop of soaring anticipation, the Babar Azam-led squad embarked on their journey from Hyderabad aboard Vistara, and the sun-kissed city of Ahmedabad played host to their arrival in the late afternoon.

En route to their destination, the cabin crew orchestrated a delightful surprise, showering the team with congratulations for their remarkable performance against Sri Lanka. Upon touchdown, the team was whisked away through a specially designated VIP gate at Ahmedabad's bustling airport, escorted by a comprehensive police convoy, to their team hotel.

In light of the impending mega-event, security in the city was bolstered, assuring a safe environment for the teams and fans alike. A heartwarming reception greeted the entire Pakistani contingent upon their arrival at the hotel, where traditional-clad dancers presented them with khadi shawls. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) shared a captivating video on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), encapsulating their journey from Hyderabad to the vibrant city of Ahmedabad.

The anticipation continues to build as the Indian cricket team, under the leadership of captain Rohit Sharma, is expected to arrive in Ahmedabad later in the afternoon on Thursday. With a surge of cricket enthusiasts descending upon the city, virtually all hotels, guesthouses, and accommodations have been snapped up, bearing testament to the colossal excitement surrounding this epic clash.

A Solid Start for Both Contenders

The upcoming showdown marks the first time in seven years that these arch-rivals will square off in India. The previous appearance of Pakistan on Indian soil was during the T20 World Cup in 2016. As the 2023 World Cup commenced, both India and Pakistan started their campaigns in formidable fashion. Pakistan emerged victorious against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, while India triumphed over the five-time world champions, Australia, and Afghanistan.

In their recent fixture against Sri Lanka in Hyderabad, Pakistan etched their name in history by successfully chasing down a formidable target of 345 runs, powered by scintillating centuries from Abdullah Shafique (103) and the indomitable Mohammad Rizwan (131*).

India, meanwhile, made quick work of Afghanistan, securing an eight-wicket win, courtesy of an explosive 131-run inning from Rohit Sharma and an unbeaten 55 from the ever-reliable Virat Kohli. With both teams boasting resounding victories under their belts, the impending clash between these arch-rivals is poised to be nothing short of electrifying. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await this epic contest, and it promises to be an encounter for the ages.

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