Reports: Sachin Tendulkar to be present during IND vs PAK T20 World Cup clash in New York

Sachin Tendulkar (Photo Source: Instagram/Sachin Tendulkar)

Cricket fans across the globe are eagerly waiting for the marquee clash between India and Pakistan at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 in New York on June 09. However, according to recent reports, legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar could be in attendance for the match to cheer for the Men in Blue.

According to sources close to the ICC, Tendulkar, who is associated with one of the global body’s key sponsors, is expected to be present at the stands at the Nassau County ground for this crucial group stage encounter. His presence will be a huge morale booster for the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team.

“Yes, if all goes well, Sachin will be watching the match in New York and cheering the Indian team,” said a source working closely with the ICC as quoted by News18.

Regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time, the 51-year-old has shattered all the batting records that can be even thought of. He tops the run-scoring charts in both Tests and ODIs and has featured in six 50-over World Cups between 1992 and 2011. He also served as the ICC’s ‘Brand Ambassador’ during the 2015 ODI World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

“It is still not known if he would meet the players before the game or not but his mere presence in the stands will certainly be a morale booster for Rohit Sharma and his men in what will be the most important group league assignment,” the source added.

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Indian team takes part in first training session

Rohit and Co. have already reached New York for their group-stage games, except Virat Kohli who is set to join the squad in the coming days. The team has begun their practice sessions, having their first training stint and they will not play any warm-up games ahead of their World Cup opener.

India will be aiming to clinch their second T20 WC title in the upcoming edition of the tournament. The team is placed in Group A, alongside Ireland, Pakistan, and the United States. All their group-stage matches will be played at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in East Meadow, New York.

Also read: BCCI shares video of Rishabh Pant in Team India jersey ahead of T20 World Cup

Still, with the 2023 World Cup finals disappointing loss fresh in mind, the Men in Blue side will be determined to redeem themselves and lift the coveted trophy. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already announced a 15-member squad along with four additional players as traveling reserves.