Video: ICC World Cup Qualifier Trophy Unveiled
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier Trophy was unveiled in Abu Dhabi ahead of the tournament, which will commence on 18 October.
Attended by the captains of all 14 participating teams — including Bermuda — which play in the event in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the trophy was first taken to the Majlis of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan and then to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
It was followed by what was a fun interaction with enthusiastic children from the different Emirates at Abu Dhabi Cricket.
Through the grandeur of the Majlis and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the captains received an authentic Emirati welcome.
Welcoming the tournament to the United Arab Emirates, His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan said, “We are delighted to host the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers here in the UAE.
“It’s a marquee event for us and an auspicious occasion for the country. Over the next few days, we hope all the teams will enjoy the Emirati hospitality and go back with memories to cherish.”
ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley, said, “Fourteen countries will battle it out to decide the six teams that will qualify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2020 in Australia, taking place between 18 October and 15 November 2020.
“This event is the culmination of a global qualification process that offered all ICC Members the opportunity to reach the T20 World Cup.
“The UAE is an excellent location in which to stage this event with a number of world class facilities in close proximity to each other. We have staged several excellent events here in the past and I have no doubt that this event will be equally successful.’
The final pit stop of the tour saw approximately 100 children from Zayed Cricket Academy and Al Ain Cricket Academy participate in a three-match cricket clinic. The enthusiasts were buoyed by the presence of former Irish Men’s Cricket Captain and Tournament Ambassador – Niall O’ Brien and the 14 participating captains.
Speaking at the event, O Brien said, “The chance to represent your country in a World Cup is massive – I feel there is no greater motivation than that in sport. I participated in five and that was the pinnacle of my career.
“The tournament itself should be very competitive – I sense we will see a lot of upsets and whoever adapts best to the conditions and reacts well under pressure should make their way to Australia.”
A similar activation with kids And Niall OBrien will be held at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Saturday.
The opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier will be played between Scotland and Singapore at the ICC Academy in Dubai on October 18.
