Quite a few of them had gathered near the Kapodara Crossroads to express their anger against Azharuddin for what they called his negative approach. They garlanded the effigy with chappals and shoes before setting fire to it. He should be expelled from the team immediately, they said while criticising his irresponsible batting.

They did not stop at that and even wondered aloud whether betting had anything to do with his poor showing. A few went to the extent of threatening to immolate themselves if the selection committee reposed faith in Azharuddin again. Rarely ever have Surtis expressed their outburst against any cricketer in this manner.