Dubai: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday announced Sachin Tendulkar as an ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Ambassador — the second successive time that the India maestro has filled the role.
Batting great Tendulkar, who retired last year, also acted as ambassador for the the previous event, which was co-hosted by Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka in 2011.
In his role as ambassador, the 41-year-old will promote and support a variety of ICC initiatives to enhance the profile of the tournament, which is the third biggest sporting event in the world and will take place in Australia and New Zealand from February 14 to March 29.
Tendulkar is the leading run-getter in World Cup history with 2,278 runs in 45 matches at an average of 56.95. For his 673 runs in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2003, he was awarded player of the tournament as India finished runners-up to Australia.
“I am delighted and honoured to be appointed ICC Cricket World Cup Ambassador for the second successive time,” he said.
“After playing in the last six editions, the upcoming World Cup will be a different experience as I will follow it from the sidelines. It could probably be comparable to the ICC Cricket World Cup 1987, where I was a ball boy, enthusiastically cheering every ball.
“The excitement of the World Cup grows with every new edition and this year’s [2015] host nations, Australia and New Zealand, are known for their sporting culture, great cricket facilities and knowledgeable crowds.” Lifting the World Cup is every international cricketer’s quest and the tournament brings out the best of individuals and competing teams.
“The image of the champion team lifting the World Cup inspires many youngsters around the world and gives them a dream to chase — a dream which I fulfilled after 22 years of relentless pursuit by being part of the victorious Indian team in 2011.”
ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said: “The ICC is delighted to once again have Sachin as an ambassador for its biggest and most prestigious tournament. Sachin is not only an inspiration to cricketers but to all sportspeople for his endurance, perseverance, talent, personality and commitment to the game.”
