18,000 Indians, 12,000 Pakistanis and 2,000 Sri Lankan Police: The scale of the India-Pakistan showdown
Times of India
by PRATYUSH RAJFebruary 15, 2026
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The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2026 has drawn unprecedented attention, with fans and stakeholders gathering in large numbers in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Over 18,000 Indian supporters and 12,000 Pakistani fans have traveled to watch the clash, reflecting the deep-seated rivalry between the two cricketing nations. The event is not just a sporting spectacle but also a political and cultural phenomenon, with local vendors, tuk-tuk drivers, and hotel owners benefiting economically from the influx of visitors.
The match has been surrounded by high tension and security measures, with 2,000 police officers and nearly 600 military personnel deployed to ensure safety. Both India and Pakistan have sent their intelligence and security agencies to coordinate arrangements, underscoring the significance of this encounter. Fans like Saif from Bengaluru and Mohammad Infaz, a tuk-tuk driver fluent in Hindi, express confidence in India's strong team, while Pakistani supporters like Muhammad Usama believe their side has an edge due to familiarity with local conditions.
Local businesses are thriving as a result of the event. Vendors selling jerseys and souvenirs outside the R Premadasa Stadium are making significant profits, with some earning ten times their usual income. Hospitality providers like Prasanna, who runs an Airbnb, have focused on accommodating international fans while locals like Ryan de Silva, a Mumbai Indians fan,遗憾未能获得门票。The match has also sparked discussions about its political and cultural implications. Former England captain Michael Atherton described the fixture as "toxic and politicized," highlighting its impact on global cricket's fragile economy.
Ultimately, the India vs Pakistan game is more than just a cricket match—it’s a high-stakes event that transcends sports, involving politics, security, and economic opportunities for locals. Both captains acknowledged this unique dynamic, with Suryakumar Yadav emphasizing the pressure and significance of
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/15/2026