Cricket

The Afghanistan cricket team faced an unexpected dietary challenge during their stay in Bridgetown for the T20 World Cup Super Eights match against India. The absence of halal meat, a crucial component of their dietary requirements, at their hotel left them in a predicament.Accustomed to the abundant hospitality they experienced in India during the previous year's 50-over tournament, the Afghanistan team found themselves in a different situation. To address the issue, some team members took it upon themselves to temporarily assume the role of chefs.While halal meat is available in the Caribbean region, it is not guaranteed to be a standard offering at all hotels and restaurants. This lack of certainty posed a significant challenge for the Afghanistan team, who adhere to specific dietary guidelines."Halal meat is not available in our hotel. Sometimes we cook on our own or sometimes we go out. In the last World Cup in India, everything was perfect. Halal beef is an issue here," a player told PTI."We had it in St. Lucia but it is not there at all venues. A friend arranged it for us and we cooked on our own."Despite the dietary challenges, India secured a resounding 47-run victory against Afghanistan at the Kensington Oval on Thursday, marking a perfect beginning to their Super 8 campaign.The Super 8 stage presents a grueling schedule for the teams, requiring them to participate in three matches across various countries with just a single day for travel in between. Given the restricted air travel options available in these islands, the logistics pose a significant challenge.An additional Afghanistan team member highlighted that the demanding Super 8 schedule has also taken a toll on their team's readiness and preparations for the matches."There is uncertainty over flights and training schedule. We are often informed about it at the last minute. We understand that the organisers are doing their best considering logistical challenges, which are bigger in the Caribbean than anywhere else," he said.Afghanistan next face Australia in St Vincent on Saturday.Meanwhile, Indian fans continue to flock to the Caribbean to support their team. Despite the Kensington Oval being only partially filled during the India-Afghanistan match, a significant portion of the crowd donned the iconic blue jersey, proudly displaying their allegiance to the Indian side.The Caribbean's close proximity to the United States and Canada has facilitated the journey for Indian expatriates, allowing them to witness the matches in person. Additionally, Indians residing in the United Kingdom have embarked on the trans-Atlantic voyage to support their team."I have come here from Toronto. There was no direct connectivity so I went to Miami and then came to Barbados. I have tickets for all India games, I just want one for the final here," said Paresh.The Caribbean locals are also caught up in the excitement surrounding the event. Everyone, from the cab driver to the hotel's front desk manager, is engrossed in the tournament, hoping for the West Indies to clinch an unprecedented third championship.