On the morning of Dec 8, a group of workers were playing cricket on a field, as they usually did on Sundays.

Later that night, they were asleep in their dorms when the riot erupted close to where they play.

Although shocked by the incident, they ventured back the following Sunday, unlike thousands of workers who stayed away from Little India.

"Why should we be scared?" asked worker Manoharan, 25, who is from India. "We don't disturb people; people don't disturb us."

About 50 workers play cricket friendlies on the knobbly field each Sunday as others stand around watching or waiting to play.

Technician Poorasamy Bharath, 29, said: "Every week we are working and working. Cricket gives me energy. If I don't play, I feel tired."

Most of the workers grew up playing cricket in India and were pleased to have a playing field in Little India, where they can buy groceries as well.

Mr Manoharan, like others, supported the steps to reduce alcohol consumption in the area.

He said: "If workers cannot spend money on drinks, maybe they will save and send more home."