In front of the legends who will captain their teams in the first-ever International Masters League (IML), the league unveiled its trophy.
At the Captains’ Day, which took place on Wednesday at the DY Patil University campus, India’s cricket legend and Bharat Ratna Sachin Tendulkar was joined by South Africa’s Jonty Rhodes, who played for captain Jacques Kallis, Australia’s Shane Watson, England’s World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan, West Indies maestro Brian Lara, and Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara.
Sporting legends will be on display at the IML. On Saturday, February 22, the IML’s first match between the India Masters and Sri Lanka Masters will take place at the D.Y. Patil Stadium.
“Going back to the cricket field is like going back to the place that has given me my identity as a sportsperson,” stated Sachin Tendulkar, captain of the India Masters. It’s really unique to get back again with my old comrades and peers, relive our adventures, and share our treasured memories. I have no doubt that every player is as passionate about playing the game we all love as I was on the day I made my national debut, and I am just as enthusiastic today as I was then.”
*West Indies Masters captain Brian Lara: I’ve always considered India to be a second home, so I’m genuinely thrilled to be returning there. Playing here is an experience that will never be forgotten because of its lively culture and the fervor of its varied fan base. I’m really excited to play in the International Masters League with some old pals again, and I can’t wait to rekindle some of our legendary rivalries. I’m prepared for the action since the stage is set and the atmosphere is electrifying.
* Sri Lanka Masters captain Kumar Sangakkara: Being a member of this amazing tournament makes me very happy. My life revolves on cricket, and the IML is made even more memorable by the opportunity to play with some of the best cricket ambassadors. It’s going to be an amazing match, and I am really excited for that first match versus the India Masters!”
“India has always been one of my favorite countries, and the love and support I’ve received here is second to none,” stated Shane Watson, the captain of the Australia Masters. Playing in the International Masters League and sharing the field with friends and former coworkers makes me very happy. We have a good team and are prepared for the task, but I know India will be a formidable opponent in this exciting match.
“The International Masters League is going to be an exciting tournament, and I can’t wait to regroup with the boys and get back out there,” stated England Masters captain Eoin Morgan. India is the ideal location for a tournament like this one since it is a cricket-loving country with ardent supporters. I’ve been putting in a lot of work to make sure we deliver, and I’m hoping for a fantastic outing.
“It’s no secret how special India is to me,” stated Jonty Rhodes, who is playing for the South Africa Masters on behalf of Jacques Kallis. I’ve always had an amazing time playing here, and I’m excited to return for the International Masters League. We’ve put together a great team, and I know we’ll have a great time. Although we’re hoping for the greatest outcome, this will be a very unique competition, and I can’t wait to get back on the field!”
During Captains’ Day, it was announced that elderly people and students would be admitted to the stadium free of charge for the first game. Senior citizens would need to carry a senior citizen card provided by the government, while students would need to show a valid ID card from their current college or university. If a legitimate and authentic form of identification is not presented at the gate, entry will be refused.
The ticketing partner, Book My Show, offers match tickets.
Watch the IML live on JioHotstar starting February 22nd. Colors Cineplex (SD & HD) and Colors Cineplex Superhits will also be broadcasting the IML live starting at 7:30 p.m.
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