As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the commencement of the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 in India on October 5, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a remarkable initiative known as the ‘Golden Ticket’ program. This program offers exclusive passes to notable figures in the country as a way to honor their significant contributions to the nation.
The ‘Golden Ticket’ program made its debut in September when Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan received the inaugural ticket. Jay Shah, the Secretary of the BCCI, continued this tradition by presenting the esteemed ticket to cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar. This initiative has heightened the excitement surrounding the World Cup and created a unique platform for acknowledging and honoring individuals who have made exceptional contributions.
Renowned former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has lauded the BCCI for this commendable initiative, describing it as “terrific.” In his column for Sportstar, Gavaskar expressed his appreciation for the decision by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah to honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
Gavaskar’s ‘Golden Ticket’ Recommendations
Sunil Gavaskar went a step further by suggesting the names of prominent individuals he believes should receive the prestigious ‘Golden Ticket.’ Among his recommendations are two iconic World Cup-winning cricket captains, MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev. Both Dhoni and Kapil Dev have left an indelible mark on Indian cricket through their leadership and achievements.
Gavaskar also highlighted the deserving inclusion of Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic gold medalist whose remarkable victory brought immense pride to the nation. Additionally, he suggested that S. Somnath, the esteemed Chief of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), should be considered for the ‘Golden Ticket’ due to his instrumental role in India’s achievements in space exploration.
While it remains unknown how many individuals will be recipients of the ‘Golden Ticket,’ Sunil Gavaskar’s recommendations reflect a desire to honor those who have made exceptional contributions to India in various fields. As the ODI World Cup 2023 approaches, the ‘Golden Ticket’ program adds an element of prestige and recognition to the tournament, celebrating not only cricketing achievements but also the nation’s diverse accomplishments.
Also Read: Harbhajan Singh Picks 4 Semi-Finalists of the Upcoming ODI World Cup 2023With the cricketing world eagerly awaiting the start of the World Cup, the ‘Golden Ticket’ recipients, both announced and potential, will undoubtedly bring a unique and distinguished presence to the tournament, further enhancing its significance and appeal to fans and participants alike.