The International Cricket Council has appointed former India opener Shikhar Dhawan as one of four event ambassadors for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The tournament will take place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9.
The other three ambassadors named are Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy winning captain Sarfaraz Ahmed, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, and New Zealand fast bowler Tim Southee.
The ambassadors will contribute guest columns and attend matches to share their insights about the tournament, which features the world’s top eight teams.
“It is such a special feeling to be part of a Champions Trophy, and to be given the opportunity to enjoy the upcoming edition as an Ambassador is an honour,” Dhawan said in an ICC release.
“It’s the ultimate competition where it’s all on the line, and that is what makes it such a thrilling spectacle. It’s a tournament full of passion, pride, and determination, and that’s what makes it such a thrilling and emotional journey for everyone involved.”
Dhawan holds the distinction of being India’s highest run-scorer in Champions Trophy history with 701 runs across two editions. He is the only player to win consecutive Golden Bats for highest run-scorer in the tournament.
His achievements include being named Player of the Tournament in 2013 and holding the record for most centuries in Champions Trophy history.
“Some of my most cherished cricketing memories come from playing in the Champions Trophy. In the coming weeks, we’ll see the world’s best teams pouring their heart and soul into every match, with everything they’ve worked for on the line,” said Dhawan.
Pakistan’s hosting of the tournament has particularly pleased Sarfaraz Ahmed. India will play their matches in Dubai.
“I will never forget how special it felt to don the white jackets and lift the trophy aloft as Pakistan captain back in 2017…I am delighted to see the competition return to the cricket calendar and see my country given the opportunity to host such a special event,” he said.
Both Southee and Watson expressed their excitement about the tournament. Watson stated: “With the top eight teams going head-to-head for the iconic white jackets, we are sure to see some extraordinary do-or-die cricket across three thrilling weeks.”
