Morne Morkel In Contention For India’s Bowling Coach Role
Former South African pacer Morne Morkel is reportedly in the running to become India’s new bowling coach, as suggested by Gautam Gambhir, the recently appointed head coach of the Indian team. Morkel, who has a wealth of coaching experience, previously served as the coach of the Pakistan team during last year’s ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in India but resigned months before his contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was set to expire. Gambhir’s Recommendation to BCCI Gambhir is understood to have approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider Morkel for the bowling coach position. Morkel, who played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is between 2006 and 2018, has already had some discussions with the BCCI about the role. Currently residing in Australia, Morkel has built a strong reputation as an effective coach both internationally and in the IPL. Past Collaborations in IPL Gambhir and Morkel have previously worked together at the Lucknow Super Giants during the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Gambhir served as a mentor and Morkel as the bowling coach. Even after Gambhir left to join the Kolkata Knight Riders and head coach Andy Flower moved to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Morkel continued under the new head coach Justin Langer. Morkel’s Coaching Credentials At 39 years old and having retired from international cricket in 2018, Morkel remains well-versed in the latest techniques of the game. Gambhir, known for collaborating with individuals he is comfortable with, is believed to be keen on having Morkel on his coaching team. Other Candidates for the Position Other candidates linked to the bowling coach position include Lakshmipathy Balaji, Zaheer Khan and Vinay Kumar. While the BCCI has yet to make a final decision, it is expected that a conclusion will be reached soon. One consideration is Morkel’s young family and the extensive travel required for the India job. Morkel lives in the Seaforth suburb of northern Sydney with his wife Roz Kelly, a sports presenter on Channel 9, and their two children. Potential Replacement for Paras Mhambrey If appointed, Morkel would replace Paras Mhambrey, who has excelled in the role over the past three years under head coach Rahul Dravid. Gambhir has also recommended Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate for other coaching positions, and the BCCI is believed to be keen on retaining fielding coach T Dilip from the outgoing Dravid regime. The cricketing community awaits the BCCI’s final decision on this key coaching position, with Morkel emerging as a strong contender to join Gambhir’s team. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
India Unlikely to Travel to Pakistan for ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Will Ask ICC To Shift Matches In Sri Lanka Or In Dubai
The Indian Cricket Team is unlikely to travel to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Instead, they plan to ask the International Cricket Council (ICC) to arrange their matches in Sri Lanka or Dubai, according to a BCCI source who spoke with ANI. The ICC Champions Trophy is set to be held in Pakistan from February to March 2025. India hasn’t played in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup because of the strained relationship between the two countries. The last time the two nations played a bilateral series was in India from December 2012 to January 2013. Since then, India and Pakistan have only faced each other in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup. Given the ongoing tensions, there has been a lot of uncertainty about whether India would participate in the upcoming event. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) suggested that India play all its matches in one city, with Lahore being chosen as the venue, according to ESPNcricinfo. However, the Indian board is not keen on traveling to Pakistan. A BCCI source told ANI, “India will not travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025. Will tell ICC to hold its matches in Dubai or Sri Lanka.” In May, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla mentioned that the Indian team would only go to Pakistan if the central government permitted it. He told ANI, “In the case of the Champion Trophy, we will do whatever the Government of India will tell us to do. We send our team only when the Government of India permits us. So we will go according to the decision of the Indian Government.” A similar situation occurred during last year’s Asia Cup, which was supposed to be hosted in Pakistan. The PCB had to adopt a hybrid strategy, with all of India’s matches, including those against Pakistan, being held in Sri Lanka. The final, which India won, took place in Colombo. Although Pakistan had proposed a hybrid approach for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in India the previous year, it wasn’t considered. The previous edition of the ICC Champions Trophy was held in England and Wales in 2017 with Pakistan lifting the trophy. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Gautam Gambhir Appointed As Indian Cricket Team Head Coach
Gautam Gambhir has been named as the new head coach of the senior Indian Men’s Cricket Team, as confirmed by BCCI secretary Jay Shah on Tuesday. The 42-year-old’s first assignment will be overseeing the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, comprising 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is starting from July 27, 2024. Succession from Rahul Dravid Gambhir succeeds Rahul Dravid, who served as head coach from November 2021 until June 2024, stepping down after India’s victorious ICC Men’s T20 World Cup campaign in the USA and West Indies. Dravid led India to new heights including reaching the final of the ICC World Test Championship and the 2023 50-over ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, as well as winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024. Responsibilities and Vision “In his new role as Head Coach of Team India, Gambhir will be responsible for overseeing the development and performance of the Indian cricket team,” stated the BCCI in a press release. “His focus will be on fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork, while also nurturing young talent and preparing the team for future challenges on the global stage.“ Experience and Background Although Gambhir lacks coaching experience on the international arena, he has been a mentor for several IPL teams like the Kolkata Knight Riders, who clinched the championship this year. Gambhir was also a part of the Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2022 and 2023. As a player, Gambhir had major contributions towards Team India’s World Cup victories in 2007 and 2011 during his 12-year international career from 2004 to 2016, featuring in 58 Tests, 147 ODIs, and 37 T20Is. BCCI’s Endorsement BCCI Secretary Jay Shah expressed his enthusiasm on Gambhir’s appointment: “Modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gautam has witnessed this changing landscape up close. Having endured the grind and excelled in various roles throughout his career, I am confident that Gautam is the ideal person to steer Indian Cricket forward.“ Gambhir’s Commitment Gambhir himself commented on his new role: “India is my identity, and serving my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. I’m honored to be back, albeit in a different capacity. My goal remains the same – to make every Indian proud. The men in blue carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians, and I will do everything in my power to make these dreams come true!“ Acknowledgment of Rahul Dravid’s Legacy Shah also extended gratitude to Rahul Dravid, acknowledging his successful tenure: “Under his guidance, Team India emerged as a dominant force across formats, including being crowned ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Champions!“ BCCI President’s Confidence BCCI President Roger Binny expressed confidence in Gambhir: “The Board would like to thank former Head Coach, Mr Rahul Dravid for his brilliant run with the team. Team India now embarks on a journey under a new coach – Mr Gautam Gambhir. His appointment as Head Coach marks a new chapter for Indian cricket. His experience, dedication, and vision for the game make him the ideal candidate to guide our team forward. We are confident that under his leadership, Team India will continue to excel and make the nation proud,“ Gambhir’s Major Assignments During His Coaching Tenure – India’s Tour Of Australia 2024 (5 Test)– ICC Champion’s Trophy 2025– ICC World Test Championship 2025– India’s Tour Of England 2025 (5 Test)– ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026– India’s Tour Of New Zealand 2026 (2 Test)– ICC World Test Championship 2027– ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027The appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the head coach is a start of a new era for Indian cricket, with expectations high for his leadership and coaching abilities to further elevate the India’s performances in bilateral tournaments as well as in ICC tournaments. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
A Hero’s Journey: Abhishek Sharma’s Arrival In International Cricket
Cricket has an uncanny way of balancing things out, much like life. Abhishek Sharma made his international debut against Zimbabwe on July 6 and was dismissed for a duck. However, just 24 hours later, he transformed from zero to hero by scoring 100 runs in just 47 balls. His explosive innings included seven fours and eight sixes, leaving the Zimbabwean bowlers clueless about where to bowl and what field to set. A Remarkable Acceleration What made Abhishek’s innings truly special was his remarkable acceleration. Initially, he scored 24 runs off 22 balls, but then he blasted the next 76 runs at a strike rate exceeding 300. His century came off just 46 balls, reminiscent of Rohit Sharma’s blistering 92 off 41 balls against Australia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The ‘Hitman’s’ Legacy Lives On Though Rohit Sharma has retired from T20Is, his legacy endures. Abhishek Sharma’s knock bore shades of the ‘Hitman.’ Coincidentally, Rohit’s first international century was also against Zimbabwe in an ODI back in 2010. Abhishek’s father, Mr. Rajkumar Sharma, credited Rohit for his son’s batting display. “The demand of T20 cricket now is to attack from ball one. You have to be brave. Rohit Sharma has shown the way for all the Indian youngsters. The template is set, and I am glad that Abhishek is trying to follow in the footsteps of Rohit,” he told the Indian Express. Following in Great Footsteps In many ways, Rohit was the invisible hand guiding Abhishek as he smashed his way to his first of hopefully many international centuries. Abhishek Sharma had an outstanding IPL season, scoring 484 runs for the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Now, it’s time for him to convert that form into big knocks for the Indian Cricket Team. Rohit’s Lasting Influence Rohit Sharma concluded his T20I career after leading India to the title, but his influence on Abhishek Sharma is evident. The ‘Hitman’ departed with the most runs, joint-most centuries, most games, and most sixes in T20Is. If Abhishek can achieve even a fraction of what Rohit has accomplished, Indian cricket will greatly benefit. This probably is the right time for one ‘Sharma Ji Ka Beta’ to take the baton and carry forward from the other ‘Sharma Ji Ka Beta’. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Raghavendra Dwivedi Story: From 21 Rupees to India’s World Cup Triumph
When India clinched the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, an unassuming man with kumkum on his forehead quietly celebrated on the field. This man, Raghavendra Dwivedi, hails from Karnataka and has an extraordinary story that reflects his determination, passion, and pivotal role in India’s cricketing success. Early Struggles and Determination Around 24 years ago, a young boy named Raghavendra left his home in Kumta, Uttara Kannada district, with just 21 rupees. He dreamt of becoming a cricketer, but a fracture in his hand shattered that dream. Undeterred, Raghavendra decided to carve a new path in the cricketing world. Raghavendra’s father was vehemently against his cricketing aspirations. This led to a decisive moment where Raghavendra chose cricket over everything else. He left for Hubli, where he lived in dire conditions, including sleeping at the bus stand, a temple, and eventually a crematorium. For four and a half years, he called an abandoned building in the crematorium his home, using a cricket mat as his blanket. A Turning Point Despite the hardships he faced, Raghavendra’s passion for cricket never waned. He began assisting cricketers in Hubli by throwing balls during their practice sessions. His dedication caught the attention of a friend who directed him to Bangalore, where he found a place at the Karnataka Institute of Cricket. Tere, he worked tirelessly, throwing balls to Karnataka cricketers and assisting with the bowling machine. His relentless effort did not go unnoticed. Former Karnataka wicketkeeper and current Under-19 selection committee chief Tilak Naidu recognized Raghavendra’s dedication and introduced him to Javagal Srinath, a former Karnataka cricketer. Srinath, impressed by his sincerity and hard work, invited Raghavendra to join the Karnataka Ranji team. This opportunity marked a turning point in his life. Rise to National Recognition Raghavendra’s journey continued at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) near the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where he worked without pay for several years, often going without food. However, his hard work paid off when he completed the BCCI Level-1 coaching course and became a favorite among Indian cricketers who came for practice. His talent was soon recognized by Sachin Tendulkar, leading to his appointment as a training assistant with the Indian Cricket Team in 2011. The Backbone of Team India For the past 13 years, Raghavendra, also known as Raghu, has been a crucial figure in the Indian dressing room. As a throwdown specialist, he has thrown at least 1 million balls during practice sessions. His deliveries, reaching speeds of 150 kph, have honed the skills of players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Kohli once remarked, “Facing Raghu’s 150 kph deliveries in the nets makes the fastest bowlers seem like medium pacers during matches.“ Raghu’s contribution to the team often goes unnoticed, but his role is indispensable. He is known for his speed and precision with the sidearm, making him one of the best throwdown specialists in the world. His dedication and hard work have played a significant part in the success of the Indian Cricket Team, culminating in their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup victory. An Inspirational Journey Raghavendra Dwivedi’s story is one of inspiration and perseverance. From living in a crematorium with just 21 rupees to becoming a key figure behind India’s World Cup triumph, his journey exemplifies the power of determination and hard work. His commitment to the sport and the Indian Cricket Team has made him an unsung hero, proving that true passion and dedication can overcome any obstacle. In the words of Virat Kohli, “This man has a huge role in my success today, but his hard work sometimes goes unnoticed by the world.” Raghavendra’s journey is a powerful reminder that behind every successful team, there are individuals whose efforts, though often unseen, are invaluable. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Hardik Pandya’s Redemption- From Boos To Blessings
Two months ago, amidst the deafening boos of a packed Wankhede Stadium, Hardik Himanshu Pandya was facing one of the toughest times of his career. It felt like a scene straight out of a Bollywood movie. However, like any dramatic tale, Pandya’s story saw an incredible turnaround. Hardik Pandya endured a rollercoaster year. His tenure as captain of the Mumbai Indians during IPL 2024 was far from ideal. In his debut season as MI skipper, he struggled to lead the team to success and the Wankhede crowd made their disappointment known by booing him at the top of their lungs. However, Pandya’s fortunes changed dramatically during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. He emerged as a standout performer, playing a crucial role in India’s victorious campaign. His all-around brilliance, both with the bat and the ball, helped India clinch the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 title by defeating South Africa in the final. The same crowd that once jeered him at Wankhede now chanted his name, celebrating his remarkable comeback. During the victory celebrations at the Wankhede Stadium, Indian captain Rohit Sharma lauded Hardik for his heroics in the tournament, particularly his performance in the nerve-wracking final over of the championship match. “Hardik was bowling the final over for us. Hats off to him for bowling that last over. No matter how many runs you need, there is always immense pressure to bowl that over. But hats off to him,” said Rohit, acknowledging Pandya’s composure and skill under pressure. Throughout the tournament, Hardik Pandya delivered impactful performances, scoring crucial runs down the order and taking key wickets when the team needed them most. He finished the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 with 144 runs at a strike rate exceeding 150 and claimed 11 wickets, showcasing his versatility and value to the team. The turnaround for Hardik Pandya within just two months is no less than a story of a so-called villain turning into a national hero. From facing boos at the Wankhede to becoming a World Cup hero, Hardik Pandya’s redemption is well and truly complete. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Indian Cricket Team To Celebrate T20 World Cup Triumph With A Victory Parade
The victorious Indian Cricket Team has finally kept their feet on their motherland post winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The celebrations have already begun in the country. The team met the honorable Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi, in Delhi earlier this morning. As the Indian Cricket Team landed, a massive crowd flocked around them at the Delhi airport to welcome the World Champions in style. Well, that’s not the only thing the men in blue have on their plates for today. The real celebration awaits in the evening. The Indian Cricket Team is all set to perform a victory parade in Mumbai at the Marine Drive, and a felicitation ceremony at the iconic Wankhede Stadium is on the cards to thank our cricketing superheroes who have brought the trophy home. Speaking of Victory Parades, it’s a cherished tradition for the Indian Cricket Team to thank their fans after World Cup wins. And why wouldn’t it be? Fans go absolutely wild in their support for the Indian team and their favorite stars. Whether it’s a regular bilateral series or an ICC tournament, the Indian Cricket Team always has immense backing. Thus, the victory parade creates the perfect opportunity for both cricketers and fans to celebrate the success together. About The Victory Parade The Indian Cricket Team – Victory Parade is all set to take place at Marine Drive, Mumbai, on the 4th of July, 2024. The celebrations are set to start at 5pm at the venue. The Indian Cricket Team will then enter their base, their fortress, the place where they lifted their last ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup trophy back in 2011, at the Wankhede Stadium. The team will be felicitated by the BCCI officials for their glorious achievements at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Skipper Rohit Sharma Invites Crowds For The Victory Parade Our captain, Rohit Sharma, took to Twitter (or X) to invite the crowd to join in the celebration. Such celebrations have happened in the past as well. Let’s take a look back at the previous occasions when the Indian Cricket Team’s ICC trophy victories were marked by iconic celebrations. ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2011 The 2011 victory was very much special for both the team and the fans, as it was secured on home soil. On the night of the final, India faced Sri Lanka at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The moment captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni struck that iconic six into the crowd, the entire nation erupted in celebration. The streets were filled with enthusiastic fans who rejoiced as if they had personally contributed to the triumph. The atmosphere across the country was nothing short of a grand festival. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2007 The Indian team received a grand reception back home after winning the 2007 T20 World Cup trophy in South Africa. Led by Dhoni, India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan in a nail-biting final to claim the elusive trophy, which helped ease the pain of India’s disappointing exit from the ODI World Cup earlier that year. Following their memorable triumph, the Indian players were paraded in an open-top bus from the Mumbai airport to the Wankhede Stadium. The victory parade caused a complete traffic shutdown as thousands of fans thronged the streets of Mumbai to catch a glimpse of their World Cup heroes. The open-top bus was surrounded by jubilant fans as it traveled through the city. ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 1983 The first time the Indian Cricket Team won the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup back in 1983, they went to England as underdogs, led by Kapil Dev. Upon their return, the Honorable Prime Minister Indira Gandhi hosted a warm welcome for the victorious team. With Rohit Sharma and his team announcing their victory convoy from Nariman Point to Wankhede Stadium, fans are excited to join the celebratory display of the long-awaited ICC trophy. A jam-packed Marine Drive with another sea of blue is all set to welcome the Indian Cricket Team. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
2024 T20 World Cup: India Ends 11 Year ICC Trophy Drought.
Chak De India! Well that’s what we have been hearing from the corner of every street, every house, every vehicle that passes by and of course from every Indian cricket fan. The Indian Cricket Team have successfully ended the 11 year ICC Trophy drought and 13 year World Cup drought by beating South Africa by 7 runs in the final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Virat Kohli showcased brilliance in his final T20 international appearance, contributing a commanding 76 runs from 59 balls. Reflecting on his farewell, Kohli emphasized, “It’s time for the next generation to take over. It was an open secret, and I would have announced it even if we had lost.“ The game’s momentum shifted dramatically during Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive innings of 52 runs off just 27 balls, posing a serious threat to India’s campaign. However, strategic interventions from Hardik Pandya and astute captaincy from Rohit Sharma, including a crucial over by Axar Patel, swung the momentum back in India’s favor. The match culminated in a tense finale, where Pandya’s nerve-wracking final over, defending 16 runs, secured India’s victory. This triumph marked India’s first ICC trophy since 2013 and their inaugural T20 World Cup win in the post-IPL era. The celebrations were a mix of relief and joy for Kohli, Rohit, and their teammates, potentially signaling the end of an era for these two stalwarts in T20 cricket. India’s batting was anchored by Virat Kohli’s composed innings, complemented by Axar Patel’s vital 47 runs from 31 balls, which took them to their highest total in an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final. The bowlers, spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah and supported by timely contributions from Shivam Dube, maintained pressure on South Africa throughout their chase. Crucial moments included Bumrah’s pivotal return to the attack and Suryakumar Yadav’s sensational boundary catch off Pandya’s bowling, decisively turning the tide. Despite a shaky start, India recovered to post a formidable total of 176 for 7, courtesy of the partnership between Kohli and Axar. This victory not only secured India’s place in cricketing history but also provided a fitting farewell to head coach Rahul Dravid, concluding a memorable performance that will be cherished for years to come. The Sportz Planet,Atharva Shetye
Team India’s Head Coach Salary, Perks, Eligibility & Responsibilities
Team India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed that the 2024 T20 World Cup would be his last assignment. Ahead of Team India’s opening game against Ireland, Dravid confirmed the development. He also said that he won’t be reapplying for the post. This means that the BCCI has to hunt for a new coach. The job of an Indian Cricket coach involves a lot of responsibility and pressure. Coaches travel for at least 10 months a year, staying away from their families to make sure the team performs well. However, there are also big benefits. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is looking for a new Head Coach for the men’s national team. Rahul Dravid, the current Head Coach, had his term extended until June 2024, covering the T20 World Cup 2024 in the United States and West Indies. The BCCI has published the job description for the Head Coach of Team India (Senior Men), based in Mumbai. The job lasts for 3.5 years, from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2027. Job Responsibilities The main tasks include building and managing a “world-class” cricket team that succeeds in all formats. The Head Coach will lead a group of specialist coaches and support staff, define their roles, and guide their development. Enforcing team discipline is also important. Team India’s Head Coach Eligibility Criteria Candidates need to have significant cricket experience, such as:– Playing in at least 30 Test matches or 50 ODIs, or– Coaching a full member Test-Playing Nation for at least two years. Alternatively, three years of experience as a head coach for an Associate member, IPL team, or equivalent is acceptable. Candidates must also hold a BCCI Level 3 Certification or equivalent and be below 60 years of age. SALARY FOR TEAM INDIA HEAD COACHThe salary for a national cricket coach can be very high, up to 10 crores per year. The BCCI says the salary for the Head Coach is “negotiable and will be commensurate with experience.” The exact details aren’t specified, but the BCCI emphasizes that the right candidate will be open to salary negotiations, ensuring an attractive package given the responsibilities of managing the Indian men’s team in all formats. In addition to the high salary, the national cricket coach enjoys luxurious travel and accommodation. The coach and the team travel business class and stay in the best hotels worldwide. TEAM INDIA AND COACHING STAFF’S DAILY ALLOWANCE ON AWAY TOURS DOUBLEDDuring tournaments and series, both team members and the coach receive a daily allowance for expenses. In 2019, this allowance was significantly increased to $250 (Rs 20,814.18) for overseas events, up from $125 (Rs 10,407.09). CURRENT SALARY OF TEAM INDIA HEAD COACHRahul Dravid earns Rs 12 crore a year as the head coach of Team India in all international formats. VVS Laxman temporarily replaced him and earned Rs 50 lakhs per month. Rahul Dravid’s annual salary is higher than any previous coach of the team, including Ravi Shastri and Anil Kumble. Ravi Shastri was the second highest-paid, earning Rs 9.5 crore per year when he was head coach. Rahul Dravid’s salary as head coach is also higher than some of the star players on the team, like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. WHO ELSE IS ON THE RICH-LIST AFTER DRAVID AND SHASTRI?After Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri, former Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was one of the highest-paid cricket coaches of all time, earning an impressive Rs 4.5 crores. However, his salary was still much lower than the BCCI salary of Rahul Dravid. ALSO READ: Know the Richest Head Coach Candidate for Team India WHO IS NEXT AFTER DRAVID?Rahul Dravid was appointed as the interim coach for Team India in 2021, succeeding veteran cricketer Ravi Shastri. Shortly after, the former Team India player was made the permanent head coach. With Dravid’s tenure with the Indian Cricket Team ending soon and with BCCI approaching Gautam Gambhir to take on the Team India Head Coach job, the question is who would be the next in line to take up the coaching responsibility for the Indian Cricket Team? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye.
2024 T20 World Cup: Are you planning to watch India vs Pakistan on June 09? Know This Before Leaving For New York
The 2024 T20 World Cup is here. Though there are 20 teams and 55 matches are due to be played across nine venues in the competition, but if there is one match which the fans are waiting with bated breath, is the one between India and Pakistan. Both of these archrivals will lock horns on June 9th at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. No Indian or Pakistani cricket fan would like to miss the match at any cost. By that, we mean that the tickets are really costly. Watching an India vs. Pakistan match in New York is likely to burn a hole in your pocket. What’s the ticket price for India vs Pakistan match? Are you planning to watch the India vs Pakistan match in New York on June 09th? Well, if the answer to that question is yes, then be ready to shell out a minimum of US $300 for the match. As per the ICC official ticket page, the India vs Pakistan match is a sold out already, with only a handful of tickets left. Ticket and seat availability: India vs Pakistan – June 09th As per reports, India vs Pakistan match tickets are sold out, and the ones remaining are being sold at double/triple the original prices. The price of India vs Pakistan match tickets on resale sites like StubHub and SeatGeek has crossed ₹1 crore already. Even major sporting events in the US like the NBA or Major League Baseball do not stand a chance against an Indo-Pak clash. The minimum price of an India vs Pakistan game is higher than that of the knockouts, semi-final, and even the final. That’s the impact of the arch-rivalry, where one match fetches the ICC, the revenue for the entire tournament. India vs Pakistan – How many tickets are available for the general public? No matter where they play, whenever India and Pakistan lock horns on the cricket field, cricket fans are expected to make a beeline for match-tickets, outside the venue or at the ICC ticket portal. The Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York has a holding capacity of 34,000 fans. This means the amount of tickets available for the general public is expected to go down drastically. As per the ICC-cricket.com: “A small allocation of tickets is reserved for event partners and sponsors. All remaining tickets will be available to the public via the official ticketing website: tickets.t20worldcup.com.” Now, the number of tickets released to the general public depends on the ICC and the host nation’s cricket board. The range is between 30 percent and 50 percent. For eg: During the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup in India, the Eden Gardens in Kolkata released only 32,000 tickets per game for sale to the general public. In another scenario, the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai released only 13,000 tickets for the general public, though it had a capacity of 37,000 spectators. In such a scenario, it is expected that the US Cricket Association will issue 11,000 to 17,000 tickets for cricket-crazy fans from India and Pakistan for the high-octane clash. Fans can request up to a maximum of six tickets per match, subject to availability. New York Cricket Stadium – What’s the latest on the venue? The ICC has released the first look of the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. Olympic champion Usain Bolt alongside famous cricketers – Pakistan’s Shoaib Malik, West Indies’ Sir Curtly Ambrose, England’s Liam Plunkett, and USA cricketers Corey Anderson, and Monank Patel were present during the landmark event. Bolt, also dubbed as the fastest man on the planet, expressed confidence that the USA will be able to successfully co-host the 2024 T20 World Cup alongside the West Indies. “Coming from the Caribbean where cricket is a part of life, I’m very excited to be part of the T20 World Cup coming to the USA for the first time, co-hosting with the West Indies. Getting one of the sport’s biggest events into the USA is a big milestone and can provide a launching pad leading towards cricket’s inclusion in the LA Olympics in 2028,” Bolt said. “The new stadium is going to be a fantastic place to watch from. It’s very enclosed and you feel very close to the action. I can imagine it will be full of energy when cricket fans get to Nassau County International Stadium next month.” The 34,000-seater capacity temporary stadium is one of its kind, and is believed to be one of the largest ever constructed cricket stadiums in the US’ history. The stadium features extensive hospitality and media pavilions on the north and south ends. This also joins the east and west general admission stands. Talking about the new additions the stadium has Cabana seats in the North pavilion to go with the Corner Club seats which also has a private party area. Though cricket might be a fairly new sport for the Americans, and they are getting to terms with the sport, but even they do understand what’s the atmosphere like in an India vs Pakistan match during an ICC event. “India versus Pakistan is probably equivalent to our Super Bowl. So we have made tickets available through our [International Cricket Council] host commission and there are some set aside for community groups and cricket teams here locally,” Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman said. “We want to make sure that this tournament in particular really is a celebration of the people that have stayed involved in the game of cricket in the USA for many years now since many of them moved to this country and now call it home,” said Bret Jones, CEO of the ICC. The last time India and Pakistan locked horns in a T20 World Cup came at the MCG, Melbourne in 2022. Team India required a Virat Kohli special to get out of jail and beat the arch-rivals by 4 wickets. However, Pakistan went on to the final, where they lost to eventual champions England, at