Bhubaneswar, March 26: Deserted streets and markets, empty buses, people bunking work and students trying hard to convince parents not to send them to schools presented the picture of a city that was riveted to the heart stopping World Cup cricket semi-final clash today between India and Australia.

But by the evening, across the state, the picture turned gloomy as India lost the match to Australia.

People were either enjoying the match at home or in their offices. Even street urchins could be seen glued to TV sets in the roadside eateries and pan shops, which drew crowds.

Various clubs arranged for screening of the match for the residents of the localities. At the Gopabandhu Square, a huge LCD television set was put up for the people to watch the semi-final. The scene was no different at a youth club at AG Square.

College hostel inmates, too, spent the day cheering for Team India. Special prayers were also held in temples.

The fans treated the Thursday match as the final as they believed India will lift the Cup on Sunday.

"Our team was performing very well. All the players were in good form. We hoped the team to outdo the Australians this time. Alas, it just remained a dream," said Nikita Laha, a student of Ramadevi Women's College.

The girls believed vice-captain Virat Kohli would play a spectacular innings and luck would once again smile on Dhoni as it has always been.

"We were so sure of India's win. It seems nothing was in our favour this time," said a dejected Surabhi Senapati, another student. Even after the Indian team was given a huge target to chase, there was much optimism among city viewers. Even after Kohli and Rahane's departure, fans seemed to have been hoping against hope for a miracle to happen.

"I had taken a leave for the day to watch the match. But after the wicket started falling, I returned to office. It was disheartening to watch the way the team crumbled. We all hoped to lift the Cup this time as the players were playing really well in this tournament. But I guess, the worst was saved for the last," said Minaketan Sahoo, a corporate employee.

Just as Dhoni made his way to the pavilion, fans took to social networking sites to vent their anger.

The Odia cricketers, however, had some positive to say to the Indian team. "Winning or losing is about one day's performance. Team India played great cricket in the series. It was great to see our team almost defending the title," said Odisha all rounder Biplab Samantaray.