Cricket fans in Varanasi offered prayers on Thursday for the Indian cricket team's fortunes in their World Cup quarter final against Bangladesh.
"Today India will be competing with Bangladesh in world Cup quarter-finals. We are hoping and praying for India to win the match and then play for semi-finals," Anjani Singh, a fan told ANI.
Bangladesh has won only three one-day internationals in 28 against India, although two have been at major tournaments.
After a listless lead up to the tournament, reigning world champions India have turned into a juggernaut, winning all six of their pool matches and drawing as much admiration for their bowling and fielding as their renowned batting prowess.
India's blue-clad army of fans will be out in force for the match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground today.
The winner will bid for a place in the semi-final against either Australia or Pakistan, who play their quarter-final in Adelaide on March 20.
