Multiplexes disappoint fans, will not show clash

CHANDIGARH: Flooded with requests from cricket buffs to show the India-Pakistan semifinal clash on Wednesday, the owners of multiplex halls in Tricity have decided not to do so owing to various reasons.
''We had been receiving calls from cricket fans to show the semifinal match on cinema screen. But as it was later declared that the semi-finals would be played between India and Pakistan, we were hardly left with enough time to arrange for it.For, we have to seek permission from higher authorities as well as official broadcasters of the match,'' said Pankaj Kanotra, manager of Fame Cinemas in Panchkula.
Clashes among youngsters are also stopping the cinema halls.
''As the World Cup semi-final between India and Pakistan is a much- anticipated encounter, we are apprehensive of showing the match in our cinema hall because the crowd can erupt. We are getting a number of queries from cricket fans, but we will not be able to meet their demand this time,'' said Reena, manager of Fun Cinemas in Manimajra.
''Due to the cricket-mania, cinemas are facing a huge decline in ticket sales. As India and Pakistan will clash on Wednesday, we expect 80% to 90% decline in sale of movie tickets,'' Reena added.
With no multiplex cinema in Tricity showing the match, the game fans are looking for other exciting options instead of watching the match on regular TV screens. ''I was hoping to see the match with my friends on a large digital screen in a cinema hall. But now, we will plan something else,'' said Chirag Seth of Sector 12, Panchkula.
''I have seen IPL matches in multiplex cinemas and its a wonderful experience. But with no cinema hall showing the Indo-Pak clash, I will catch the action on a large LCD screen in a city restaurant,'' said Akash, a resident of Sector 37, Chandigarh.