In a highly anticipated moment for cricket enthusiasts, the Pakistan cricket team set off for India on Wednesday, marking the commencement of their journey in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
On Wednesday, at the break of dawn, precisely at 3:20 AM, the national team departed from Lahore’s bustling airport. Their destination: India, where they are set to compete on the grand stage of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
En route to India, the team made a brief stopover in the vibrant city of Dubai. This layover provided a moment of respite before they embarked on the next leg of their journey.
The anticipation continued to mount as the team’s plane touched down in Indian Hyderabad at 8:15 PM local time on September 27, marking today’s significant milestone.
Pakistan’s travel contingent comprises 18 skilled players who are ready to showcase their talent on the world stage. They are complemented by a support team of 13 personnel, ensuring the team’s preparations are impeccable.
The coaching staff, including Bowling coach Morne Morkel and men’s cricket team director Mickey Arthur, will rendezvous with the team in Dubai and India, respectively. Their expertise will be invaluable in the upcoming challenges.
The team’s schedule packed as they gear up for the tournament. The next day after arrival, they will dive into a rigorous training session. Additionally, their first warm-up match against New Zealand scheduled for September 29, offering a taste of the battles to come.
Before departing for India, the national team captain, Babar Azam, reached out to cricket fans, seeking their prayers and support. He expressed his confidence in their unwavering backing and signed off with a spirited “Pakistan Zindabad.”
As we head for the World Cup, we seek prayers of all the Pakistan cricket team fans and well-wishers. I am certain that you will continue to extend your support and love, which you have always done. Pakistan Zindabad 🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/ZiMJIfCBfd— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) September 27, 2023
In a crucial development, India finally issued visas to the Pakistan team, putting an end to the uncertainty that had loomed over Pakistan’s participation in the tournament. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had previously raised concerns with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding visa delays, which had disrupted the team’s preparations.
With the World Cup on the horizon, Pakistan will engage in two warm-up matches to fine-tune their skills. Their World Cup campaign will officially commence on October 6 when they face off against the Netherlands. However, the highlight of their fixtures undoubtedly the highly anticipated clash with arch-rivals India on October 14 in Ahmedabad—a contest that promises to be a cricketing spectacle.