From screens to store shelves: Guwahati fans gear up with favourite team jerseys

Guwahati: Football fever has moved from television screens to store shelves, with sportswear shops across the city witnessing a rush of fans eager to don the jerseys of their favourite team.Store owners said Argentina and Portugal jerseys are the top sellers, driven by fans of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.“We have jerseys of teams from France, Japan, Germany, Brazil and Spain, and the cost starts from Rs 400 and goes up to Rs 1,500. While the standard jerseys arrive from Calcutta, the prices are kept a little reasonable as customers want something affordable. The premium jerseys are a little expensive given the higher quality material, and these jerseys are the first copy which arrives from places like Vietnam and Thailand,” said Ratnadeep Buzar Baruah, a sports store owner from the city’s Ulubari area.Customers would also have to pay extra if they want to get a name customised and number printed on the jersey.“From teenagers, to working professionals, football fervour has been at an all time high over the past few days to purchase the jerseys. Our business has increased significantly compared to normal days. With many customers coming from other states to buy jerseys to wear while watching with family and friends.

Per day our shop sells 25 to 50 jerseys,” said Prashant Khater, another sports store owner from the Ulubari area.To capitalise on the rising demand, several sportswear stores have introduced special discounts. Shops are also selling banners, scarves and flags of national teams, priced between Rs 50 and Rs 500.Customers said wearing a team jersey has become a crucial part of the World Cup experience. “My son is an Argentina fan, and I have been searching for the most authentic jersey I can find to gift him. He supports the team solely for Messi, and wants his own name printed on the Argentina jersey,” said Sophie Hmar, a customer.Retailers in Guwahati expect the tournament period to be one of the busiest sales seasons of the year.