Cricket frenzy at peak in Mohali

Mohali: Excited spectators, draped in tricolours and holding placards and posters, started queuing up at the gates of the PCA stadium since morning as the city geared up to host the high-voltage World Cup semifinal clash between India and Pakistan amid unprecedented security here.

After a heavy downpour and thunderstorm last night, Mohali woke up to a bright and sunny morning to provide the perfect setting for the clash which has generated tremendous media frenzy.

With just hours to go for the high-octane clash, the PCA stadium resembled a fortress with heavy security deployed in and around the venue.

With the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani and a host of other dignitaries from both the countries attending the game, security officials were taking no chances and yet another thorough security check was conducted this morning.