After all the waiting, the 13th edition of the ICC ODI World Cup is taking place on Thursday, where 10 teams will participate. ICC has announced Indian legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar as ‘Global Ambassador’ for this year’s World Cup.
Cricket’s highest governing body confirmed this information in a statement on Tuesday night.
India legend and Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar has been named ‘Global Ambassador’ for the 2023 World Cup, the ICC said on Tuesday. This master blaster has finished the 50 over World Cup with all the coveted records. Sachin will come to the main stage with the World Cup trophy before the curtain goes up and he will inaugurate the tournament.
Sachin, who holds the record for playing six World Cups with the status of ICC Global Ambassador, said, ‘Starting as a ball boy in 1987 and representing the country in six events – the World Cup has always held a special place in my heart. Winning the World Cup in 2011 is the proudest moment of my cricket career.’
The only cricketer to score 100th century in international career can’t wait to enjoy ODI cricket’s highest competition, ‘I am also excitedly waiting for this great tournament with the special team and players ready to compete in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup for boys in India.’
Sachin, who received India’s highest civilian award Bharat Ratna, hopes, ‘Famous events like the World Cup sow the seeds of dreams in the minds of the youth. I hope this event will also inspire young girls and boys to take up the sport and represent their country at the highest level.’
Several other former star cricketers are staying as ambassadors in the upcoming World Cup. They are — West Indies’ Viv Richards, South Africa’s AB de Villiers, England’s Wayne Morgan, Australia’s Aaron Finch, Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan, New Zealand’s Ross Taylor, India’s Suresh Raina and Pakistan’s Mohammad Hafeez. Former Indian women’s team captain Mithali Raj has also received this status.
(October 4/NBW/FA)