2020 T20 World Cup: Organisers undecided over Indo-Pak warm-up match

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the International Cricket Council 2020 Twenty20 (T20) World Cup Nick Hockley, in an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, has said that no decision has been made over arch-rivals India and Pakistan’s warm-up match in the mega event.

The CEO stated that he was frequently asked about the high-profile encounter which becomes the focus of global attention.

It must be noted that both teams will not face each other in the first round of the mega event due to different groups.

“Wherever I go, I am asked about the Pakistan and India encounter. We have still not taken a decision over their warm-up match in the event. The traditional rivalry becomes the focus of fans around the world,” said Hockley.

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He also revealed that ticket sales for the mega event were at their peak and welcomed all cricket fans to witness the action.

“Ticket sales are at their peak. We will welcome all cricket fans from around the world. The warm-up match between Pakistan and India is yet to be decided. The two teams can compete in the semi-finals or finals,” he said.

The CEO stated that the tickets for the tournament had been set at a reasonable price so that the fans could enjoy the spectacle.

“The mega event will feature the men’s matches in seven cities while the women’s matches will be played in six cities. The tickets are selling fast. The ticket prices have been set at a reasonable $5 to $20. We will try to provide the best facilities for all incoming fans. Many Australians with Pakistani, Indian and Sri Lankan roots are expected to crowd the stands,” he said.

Hockley claimed that the festivities would not just be confined to the stadiums while revealing that various venues were being targeted to enrich the overall experience of the global showcase event.

“There will be a lot of activities outside the stadiums as well during the World Cup encounters. Sydney’s Olympic park will be hosting celebrations during the initial days of the mega event. Many activities are being set up in the city centre along with other venues. Designated fan zones will be set up to cater to a wide variety of fan needs,” he concluded.

The 2020 T20 World Cup is scheduled to be played in October next year in Australia.