He had driven by the market-place which was earlier hit by the blasts, and noted: “The market was business as usual. So we’ll ensure that we too get back to our work.”

Three-thousand policemen, others plainclothesmen and the franchise-appointed private security will try and allay fears inside the stadium, where increased frisking is expected for the 4pm start.

The franchise say they’re looking at opportunities to integrate with a community shattered by the blasts — “give back the love and affection they’ve given us”, as Royals CEO Fraser Castellino says. It remains to be seen whether another inspiring win will lift the silent gloom in the city.

Winning Jaipur’s hearts has been commonplace for the spectacularly over-achieving Rajasthan outfit that has surprised everyone. Perhaps cricket will assume a faith-following if the Royals can lift the spirits now.