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’Public holi-afternoon’

Star Sport Desk
Yesterday was a different day altogether because of the final match of the Asia Cup between Bangladesh and Pakistan here in Bangladesh. Before the tournament started no one would have dared to think of a final between these teams. But as the days progressed, the Tigers portrayed themselves as a much improved bunch and earned their place in the title match just rightfully. They turned the table around to beat world champions India and runners-up Sri Lanka on the way. And suddenly they emerged the favourites, at least for the Bangladeshis.
By reaching the final itself, the Tigers have already created history for themselves. And in anticipation of the final glory, the people of the country enjoyed a 'holiday' to see it all with their own eyes.
School authorities in the city were asked to release their pupils by noon. Office-goers either availed a casual leave or simply bunked. Even the street vendors kept their shops under lock and key to be a part it. TYaffic on the city streets in the afternoon were so thin that no one could imagine how thick it was a few hours ago. This was the case not only in the capital, but elsewhere in the country.
Our Correspondent in Chittagong says, cricket enthusiasts of the port city were glued to television screens leaving their work places as early as 2pm as Bangladesh mesmerised them with a spirited display on the field.
People opted to remain indoors in front of television sets either at their homes or offices. Those who didn't get enough time to get home, chose to queue up in front of electronics shops to enjoy the match. A few unfortunate ones who could not manage to leave work kept themselves updated
through radio or by calling a friend on mobile phone.
Rezaul Karim, driver of a CNG-run autorickshaw, stopped driving his vehicle and started to enjoy the match on TV at an electronics showroom. He said, "I am very hopeful today about our win. All of our players are trying their best, especially Shakib and Razzak are doing well in bowling."
Our Staff Correspondent in Khulna reports, the whole of Khulna city was eagerly watching each and every step of the Tigers in the final of Asia Cup against Pakistan.
Normal life virtually came to a halt after 2pm as people of all walks of life remained glued to TV screens to see their team performing excellently in the field. City roads looked almost deserted as people stayed home to watch the final onTVleaving their daily works.
Fans were seen overwhelmed with joy as Bangladesh bowlers and fielders playing their part perfectly to send the Pakistani batsmen back to pavilion.
There was hardly any road in the Khulna city where large number of people didn't assemble to avail a peek at a TV screen in a roadside shop or restaurant.
Shamsun Nahar, owner of a tea stall at Tootpara Central Road in the city said that she had closed her business at 2pm to watch the match.
Our Staff Correspondent in Rajshahi reports, the metropolis turned into a city of celebration with people cheering around, chanting slogans, beating drums, blowing whistles and eye-catchingdisplayoffireworks.
People, rich or poor, men or women, boys or girls, many wearing the jersey of Bangladesh cricket team, remained glued to televisions sets making the city streets wear a deserted look At the Shaheb Bazar Zero Point, fans gathered in huge numbers in anticipation of a Tigers win, which ultimatelywasn'tto be.
Many enjoyed the game on big screens set up by Rajshahi City Corporation at different spots of the city. They expressed their joy by dancing and shouting, and obviously by waving huge flags of Bangladesh.
Youths in a huge motorcycle rally encircled the city blowing horns while many fire-eaters only added a mood of joy to the already cheering fans. Many clubs and organisations at several city points arranged for food for the poor.
Our Staff Correspondent in Sylhet reports, unlike other days, the movement of pedestrians in the city went thin by 2pm as people left for their houses to enjoy the Asia cup final. Festivity was seen everywhere with people expecting a big victory against Pakistan.
Our Rangpur correspondent adds, people of the new divisional town of Rangpur were seen everywhere cheering on the national team for a victory against Pakistan in the Asia Cup final.