Disappointing turnout at Narendra Modi Stadium for World Cup opener

The opening clash of the ICC World Cup 2023 between England and New Zealand has been overshadowed by the conspicuous absence of spectators in the colossal Narendra Modi Stadium situated in Ahmedabad.

Adding to the disquieting atmosphere, reports circulating in the Indian media on Wednesday hinted at potential threats from terrorists targeting World Cup matches hosted in Ahmedabad. This has inevitably sparked apprehensions regarding the safety of both players and spectators alike.

In response to these concerns, robust security measures have been instituted in and around the Ahmedabad Stadium, with a deployment of over 3,000 police personnel assigned to ensure the well-being of attendees.

Disappointing to see World Cup opening in front of just a few hundred spectators in Ahmedabad. Very disappointing #WC2023 #BCCI #ENGvsNZ https://t.co/ulB9DTEwVP

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib_100mph) October 5, 2023

Opening ceremony canceled, scheduled changed numerous times, ticketing issues, visa delays for participating team, warm up to be played behind closed doors due to security, completely empty stadium in the opening match, is India really the right venue to be hosting global event?

— Osama. (@ashaqeens) October 5, 2023 

A game between the two great cricketing nations takes place in a completely empty stadium during the 2023 World Cup. #CWC2023 pic.twitter.com/b5JJqYsG0o

— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) October 5, 2023 

A complete empty Stadium in Multan. pic.twitter.com/OD0CUMJ4YF

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 30, 2023

Opening game of #CWC23 and we have a empty stadium 🏟. Not a good look! This is what you get for delaying the WC schedule. #CricketWorldCup2023 pic.twitter.com/7AXM1xtmk1

— Lawrence Bailey ⚪ 🇿🇦 (@LawrenceBailey0) October 5, 2023 

16 overs end in #CWC23 opener and still empty stadium 😬🏟️#ENGvNZ #ICCCricketWorldCup pic.twitter.com/R4IH6AHUxb

— bdcrictime.com (@BDCricTime) October 5, 2023

Meanwhile, New Zealand elected to field first after winning the toss. Tom Latham is leading the side in absence of Kane Williamson.