India and Pakistan’s cricket encounters are celebrated for their intensity, often producing unforgettable moments and high-stakes competition. These matches generate immense excitement, drawing large crowds and high viewership globally. Fans worldwide eagerly anticipate these clashes, ensuring that stadiums are packed and television ratings are high. However, one particular India-Pakistan match stands out due to its remarkably low attendance, with only 750 spectators present.
This low attendance is surprising, particularly given the popularity of the teams and the global interest in their matches. It is important to clarify that this match was not played under any attendance restrictions. It occurred during a period when no such constraints existed. Despite the presence of star players from both countries, the match attracted a remarkably small audience.
The match took place on September 16, 1996, marking its 29th anniversary. This event was notable as it was the first One Day International (ODI) played in Canada, a nation with a less established cricket culture. The decision to host the match in Canada was strategic, considering the large expatriate communities from both India and Pakistan residing there. However, the turnout disappointed, with only about 750 fans attending the game at the Toronto stadium.
While the exact reasons for the low attendance are not fully known, heavy rainfall in Toronto that day likely contributed. The weather led to a shortened match, with each innings lasting 33 overs. In that era, Sachin Tendulkar was dominating international cricket. His performance was crucial in this game. Pakistan batted first and scored 170 runs for the loss of nine wickets. Saeed Anwar scored 46 runs off 34 balls. Javagal Srinath and Anil Kumble each took three wickets for India. In reply, Sachin Tendulkar’s unbeaten 89 runs off 89 balls secured an eight-wicket victory for India in 29.5 overs.