Today marks the start of the first-ever Over 40s Cricket Global Cup, with Pakistan Veterans taking against the USA in the first game. The Pakistan Veterans Cricket Association (PVCA) Chairman Fawad Ijaz presided over the trophy unveiling and press conference in Karachi.
Fawad Ijaz stressed the historic significance of Pakistan’s first-ever hosting of this significant veterans’ cricket competition. He gave everyone the reassurance that all participating international teams are subject to strict security checks.
The tournament’s initial name, the World Cup, had to be altered to the Global Cup due to International Cricket Council (ICC) complaints, he added. But now it has ICC certification.
Fawad Ijaz explained the Indian team’s absence by pointing out the difficulties Indian players had obtaining visas. Teams from Australia, the West Indies, Canada, Hong Kong, the United States, and the UAE are represented in the competition. A total of 36 matches will be held in Karachi at five different locations, with Pakistan playing all of their games at the National Bank Stadium.
The Pakistan Veterans team, which features star players like Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Sami, Abdul Razzaq, and others, will be led by former captain Misbah-ul-Haq. Misbah-ul-Haq acknowledged the difficulties of competing in 45-over contests while expressing his delight about returning to international cricket.
He also highlighted the positive impact of hosting the tournament in Pakistan, allowing fans to see their cricketing heroes in action once again.
