Shahrukh, Shoaib leave Hyderabad fans disappointed

Hyderabad, May 11 (IANS) Unmindful of the sweltering heat, die-hard fans filled the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium here, but were disappointed not to see their heroes - actor Shahrukh Khan and cricketer Shoaib Akhtar - in 'action'.

Braving the scorching sun, the enthusiasts took their seats much before the match began between Hyderabad's Deccan Chargers and Kolkata Knight Riders. Even 42 degree Celsius temperature could not keep the crowd away from enjoying the Sunday game.

The 40,000-capacity stadium was almost full. It was the best crowd so far at this stadium though the hosts have lost all their three matches played here and are at the bottom of the points table with just two wins from eight outings.

It was also the first day-night IPL match to be played here.

Many fans turned up to catch a glimpse of Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan, who owns the Kolkata team. But they were disappointed not to find King Khan in the stands.

'Where r u SRK' asked a placard carried by one of the fans. Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) officials said they have no information if the superstar would be coming to cheer the team.

However, another Bollywood star and Shahrukh Khan's friend Arbaaz Khan was present to cheer the Kolkata team.

HCA secretary Shivalal Yadav said all tickets for the match were sold out. 'But I don't know what is the contributing factor for this,' he said. IT companies bought 15,000 tickets for their employees.

Shoaib Akhtar's fans were also disappointed as the Pakistani speedster was not included in the team. The controversial bowler, who is a big crowd puller, is still waiting to make an IPL debut for his Kolkata team.

The visitors, however, evoked lusty cheers from a section of the crowd. Bengalis settled here were present in large numbers to cheer for Kolkata Knight Riders' captain Sourav Ganguly and his team mates.