Thaindian News

Kolkata, March 15 (IANS) Cheerful Irish fans following their World Cup team were seen taking joyrides on horse-drawn carriages, locally known as buggies, near the landmark Victoria Memorial Tuesday.

“It’s a great feeling. We have heard a lot about Kolkata and the Victoria Memorial. The World Cup has given us an opportunity to get a feel of this fabulous country”, said a fan.

The carriage men looked on amusedly as the Irish fans made merry.

The Victoria Memorial, which is dedicated to Queen Victoria, is located in the heart of the city.

A ride on the beautifully decorated horse-driven carriages across the historic building is one of the major tourist attractions.

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No laptops please, police stump journos

A few Indian journalists entering the Eden Gardens for covering the World Cup match between Ireland and South Africa had the shock of their lives when they were told by policemen manning the entry gate that they could not take laptops inside.

“No, no. Laptops are strictly prohibited,” said an officer.

As the dismayed journos protested, the officer called his superior and he, too, would not relent.

A heated exchange followed, but the policemen would not budge.

Meanwhile, a couple of foreign journalists smartly walked into the stadium unchallenged with their gadgets.

Now the harried journos were furious.

“How could you allow them with laptops? Just because they are foreigners,” said a fuming Indian correspondent.

The policemen now sensed trouble and were on the backfoot. “Ok, ok, no problem, all of you can carry your laptops.”

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Fans root for the Irish

Around 20,000 spectators at the iconic Eden Gardens fervently rooted for the Irish team right from the first ball.

As Irish skipper William Porterfield put South Africa in to bat, the crowd started egging them on. South African skipper Graeme Smith’s early dismissal was greeted with a huge roar. The Irish, known for their brilliant fielding, dropped catches and the disappointment seemed more in the stands.

“Catch gulo dhor na re” (Please hold the catches), a middle aged cricket buff was heard pleading.

Ireland, however, were quick to make amends by effecting two run-outs.

The crowd celebrated the fall of every South African wicket and as half the side went back with only 117 on board, the spectators were in a joyous delirium.

(Sirshendu Panth can be contacted at s.panth@ians.in)