Kolkata: Eden Gardens is known for memories and precious moments. The ground that escalated former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar to stardom (after he uprooted the stumps of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in consecutive deliveries in a Test match in 1999) blessed the young Mohammad Amir on the eve of the Indo-Pak clash of ICC World Twenty20.
Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi shares a lighter moment with India's Virat Kohli at Eden Gardens on Friday. India enter into the marquee clash as clear favourites (Photo: PTI)
The talented pacer, who made a sensational comeback after a five-year ban, received a bat from star India batsman Virat Kohli during the training session.
Kohli, who praised the youngster after his astounding spell (3/18) against India during Asia Cup in Mirpur, had a chat with Amir when Pakistan was warming up.
Kohli initially met Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi and had a conversation. Later, he called for Amir and gifted him a bat.
Amir, in a moment of absolute joy, checked the grip and stance.
Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi shares a lighter moment with India's Virat Kohli at Eden Gardens on Friday. (Photo: PTI)
According to sources, Amir had thanked Kohli and asked for a bat after Asia Cup.
Pakistan Team practice session - Mohammed Amir bowling before the next match against India at ICC #WT20Clip is for non-commercial, editorial use only (i.e. no advertising pre-rolls, bumpers or bugs)Clip may only be used for editorial use with clear courtesy to PCB & Facebook
Posted by Pakistan Cricket Team on Friday, March 18, 2016
Ground realities
However, the security has been tightened by Kolkata police. At least 3,000 personnel are at work to ensure safety during the high voltage match.
“There will be no stone unturned for the match. We have called for 2,000 constables, including women, several inspectors and mounted police,” said a police officer on duty at the premises.
Go, pick up the ball - Captain MS Dhoni is in the nets #Ind #WT20
Posted by Indian Cricket Team on Friday, March 18, 2016
“There are watch towers, sand bunkers and quick response teams placed at strategic points,” he added.
Pakistan cricketers were accompanied by special commandos – right from their hotel to the nets.
