The countdown launch ceremony of the T20 World Cup 2021 that took place on Thursday in Dubai was attended by the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, general secretary Jay Shah and ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the T20 World Cup 2020 was postponed, Australia being the host country for the 2020 series, confirmed to host the tournament in 2022, while India retained the hosting rights for the 16-team tournament after confirming that the tournament can be held in 2021. The ICC is yet to confirm the dates for T20 World Cup 2021 but both men and women editions of the tournament will be held in October-November.
Speaking at the launch of the countdown, ICC Chief Executive Manu Sawhney said: "With Diwali just two days away and with the countdown to the tournament in India underway, this is an opportune moment to unveil our brand identity that so wonderfully reflects the vibrant festival of lights.
"We are working very closely with the BCCI to deliver a stellar tournament bringing the world's best players together to go head to head in the first global cricket event since the advent of the pandemic."
While BCCI president and former Indian Captain Sourav Ganguly said it is an honour to host the T20 World Cup in 2021 and he is looking forward to playing the role of an administrator in helping put things together.
"It is a matter of great honour for us to be hosting the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. India has successfully staged several global events since the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 1987and I am sure cricketers from around the world would be excited at the prospect of playing in our cricket-loving country," Ganguly said.
"I have enjoyed being part of ICC events as a player and know from experience that nothing beats the buzzing atmosphere of a global cricket event with millions around the world watching every game. I now look forward to playing my part as an administrator as we prepare to host the prestigious event."
Meanwhile, the general secretary of BCCI Jay Shah said that he will leave no stone unturned to ensure health and safety.
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"The BCCI will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the health and safety of everyone concerned in this showpiece event are taken care of. While we are determined to provide a rich cricket-viewing experience, I would also like to assure the ICC and Member Boards that India is known for its warm hospitality and we will make you feel at home," Jay Shah said.
"In these times of pandemic when there are severe restrictions, the BCCI believes in the policy of innovating and adapting, and I am confident that we will overcome every challenge."
The teams participating in the tournament scheduled for October-November next year are Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, Ireland, Namibia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies.