Sarfaraz named among ambassadors for CT

LAHORE: The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced Wednesday that Pakistan’s former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed will join an elite group of cricket legends as ambassadors for the upcoming Men’s Champions Trophy, set to begin next week.

Ahmed, who memorably led Pakistan to victory in the 2017 tournament, heads an impressive lineup that includes Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, Indian opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan, and New Zealand pace bowler Tim Southee. The announcement comes as cricket’s premier eight-team tournament returns to the international calendar, with Pakistan serving as the host nation.

The ambassadors, bringing decades of combined international cricket experience, will provide expert analysis and behind-the-scenes insights throughout the tournament. They will contribute through guest columns and make appearances at matches, offering their perspective on what is widely considered one of cricket’s most intense competitions.

“Lifting the trophy as Pakistan’s captain in 2017 was an unforgettable moment,” Ahmed told reporters at the announcement. “The sight of our nation celebrating that victory remains close to my heart. I’m particularly excited to see this prestigious tournament return to cricket’s calendar, with Pakistan having the honor of hosting.”

The tournament’s format, which pits the world’s top eight cricket nations against each other, leaves little room for error. As Dhawan, who was Player of the Series in India’s successful 2013 campaign, explained, “One mistake or one loss could end a team’s hopes. It’s the ultimate competition where everything is on the line.”

New Zealand’s Southee emphasized the tournament’s unique intensity, noting that “every game, every ball, and every moment matters.” Meanwhile, two-time champion Watson highlighted the tournament’s reputation for producing “extraordinary do-or-die cricket.”