Edgbaston, Birmingham:
Fans of the Indian cricket team took early bragging rights ahead of next month’s ICC Champions Trophy by defeating a team of Pakistan fans in a series of games for the Edgbaston Fans Trophy.
Played inside the Edgbaston Cricket Centre, the Edgbaston Fans Trophy was a partnership event between Warwickshire County Cricket Club, the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB), the National Asian Cricket Council (NACC) and Attock Cricket Club.
The event was also part of the Nissan Trophy Tour, which gave the players and spectators in attendance a chance to see the ICC Champions Trophy and ICC Women’s World Cup up close as part of a five-day tour of Birmingham.
Neil Snowball, Chief Executive of Warwickshire CCC, said: “This year’s Edgbaston Fans Trophy is a terrific way to celebrate the ICC Champions Trophy and the five-marquee games here in Birmingham, particularly India versus Pakistan on Sunday 4 June.
“Whilst there is a great rivalry between both teams, tonight’s games were played in the true spirit of cricket, which highlighted just how sport can bring together people of all backgrounds and beliefs.
“Our thanks go to the ECB, NACC and Attock CC for their support and congratulations to both teams on creating a thrilling climax to the event.”
The Edgbaston Fans Trophy was originally set to be played at Attock CC, but was switched to the Edgbaston Cricket Centre due to inclement weather. After two eight-over games ended with one win per side, a Super Over was called to decide the winner with India securing victory by four runs.
Mohammed Arif, ECB National Growth Manager for Diverse Communities, said: “The Edgbaston Fans Trophy match was a great example how to engage with true fans who have followed India and Pakistan around the world through cricket. The excitement that the games provided and experience of playing under pressure was amazing for players and supporters.
“South Asian engagement is a key focus for the ECB over the next few years and we are keen align with the participants that play, attend and follow.”
Gulfraz Riaz, Chairman of the National Asian Cricket Council, said: “The Edgbaston Fans Trophy has been a great platform to bring together recreational cricketers from across the country to celebrate the game and build new friendships.
“Many of the players representing the teams play outside of the traditional structure of cricket clubs and competitions that take place on Saturdays, but instead take part in Parks Leagues and other tournaments, which are thriving.
“Tonight has been a great showcase for these competitions with some great cricket on show for the spectators in attendance.”
A limited number of tickets remain available for Australia v New Zealand and Pakistan v South Africa in the ICC Champions Trophy at Edgbaston. For further information, please visit https://www.icc-cricket.com/tickets/champions-trophy.
