The upcoming clash between cricket rivals India and Pakistan, scheduled for October 15 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad during the 2023 World Cup, has created a frenzy among fans, leading to a surge in airfare prices. The Narendra Modi Stadium, with its massive capacity of approximately 132,000 spectators, is expected to be completely filled for this highly anticipated match.
According to Nishant Pitti, CEO and co-founder of EaseMyTrip, the demand for flights has reached an unprecedented level, causing airfares to increase by six times their usual rates. Particularly, ticket prices for flights between Delhi-Ahmedabad and Mumbai-Ahmedabad on October 14, a day before the match, have skyrocketed. Currently, a one-way direct flight from Delhi to Ahmedabad or Mumbai to Ahmedabad is priced between INR 15,000 and INR 22,000. This surge in prices has occurred despite bookings being made three months in advance.
The demand for flight tickets and searches on travel websites has reached unprecedented levels, with many enthusiastic fans booking their tickets well in advance to ensure their presence at the match.
Prior to this, hotel rates in Ahmedabad had already experienced a significant increase after the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that the arch-rivals would face each other in the city. Hotel accommodations have seen a nearly tenfold rise in prices, with many rooms already sold out for that particular day. Some hotels are even charging close to 100,000 Indian rupees (INR), compared to their usual rates ranging from INR 5,000 to INR 8,000 for the same room on a regular day.
As the match between India and Pakistan approaches, the excitement and demand for tickets and accommodations continue to surge, reflecting the intense anticipation surrounding this thrilling encounter. With the Narendra Modi Stadium expected to reach its full capacity, fans are eagerly looking forward to witnessing this intense clash between the arch-rivals.
