The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced that Indian cricketing icon and Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar has been named as the Global Ambassador for the ODI World Cup 2023. (Full Coverage | Schedule | Cricket News)
The 2011 World Cup winner who has held a legendary status especially in the 50-over cricket, will walk out with the coveted trophy during the opening match between New Zealand and England on October 5 at the Narendra Modi International Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The Master Blaster, who boasts an enviable record of featuring in six ODI World Cups in his decorated career, will also declare the tournament open. Defending champions England will take on New Zealand in the tournament opener in a replay of last edition's final.
Speaking on being appointed as the Global Ambassador, Sachin Tendulkar said, "From being a ball boy in 1987 to representing the country in six editions, World Cups have always held a special place in my heart. Winning the World Cup in 2011 is the proudest moment of my cricketing journey.
“With so many special teams and players set to compete hard in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 here in India, I am excitedly looking forward to this fantastic tournament.
“Marquee events like the World Cup seed dreams in young minds, I hope this edition too inspires young girls and boys to pick up sports and represent their countries at the highest level.”
Moreover, Sachin will also feature alongside an electric cast of ICC ambassadors on the opening day event – West Indies legend Vivian Richards, South Africa’s AB de Villiers, England World Cup-winning skipper Eoin Morgan, Australia’s Aaron Finch, Sri Lanka spin great Muttiah Muralitharan, New Zealand’s Ross Taylor, India’s Suresh Raina and ex-captain Mithali Raj and Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez.
Talking about Team India, earlier, their final warm-up match against the Netherlands was abandoned without a ball being played. India will now fly to Chennai to play Australia in their opening ODI World Cup 2023 fixture.
