World Cup 2023: The cricketing world is abuzz as England and New Zealand teams touched down in Ahmedabad, the venue for the World Cup 2023 opener. Both teams were greeted with traditional festivities, and social media is awash with visuals from the grand welcome.
Arrival in Ahmedabad:
ENG vs NZ: Tuesday witnessed the arrival of the English and New Zealand cricket teams in Ahmedabad for their first face-off in World Cup 2023. The players experienced a taste of India’s rich cultural heritage with a grand traditional welcome. The much-awaited match, scheduled for October 5, will be hosted at the renowned Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Pre-Match Preparations:
World Cup 2023: Having flown from different parts of India – New Zealand from Thiruvananthapuram and England from Guwahati – both teams are now gearing up for their first clash. While there won’t be a grand inauguration ceremony for this edition of the World Cup, there’s anticipation for the photoshoot featuring the captains from all ten participating teams alongside the prestigious trophy.
A Grand Kiwi Welcome:
ENG vs NZ: The New Zealand team, led by skipper Kane Williamson, received a rousing welcome as they reached their Ahmedabad hotel. They were greeted with traditional drums and a shower of flowers. The evident joy on the players’ faces was palpable. New Zealand’s official Instagram page captured this moment with the caption, “Great welcome before the first match.”
England’s Traditional Greeting:
World Cup 2023: Jos Buttler’s English team also felt the warmth and grandeur of the Indian culture. Greeted with traditional Gujarati turbans and the ceremonial ’tilak’ on their foreheads, the players felt right at home. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) shared this beautiful moment on their Instagram, writing, “Arrived in style.”
Narendra Modi Stadium’s Busy Schedule:
World Cup 2023: A significant venue for the tournament, Narendra Modi Stadium is set to host five key matches, including the World Cup final. The first of these is the England vs. New Zealand match on October 5. Other matches to watch out for include the iconic India vs. Pakistan clash on October 14, followed by England vs. Australia, South Africa vs. Afghanistan, culminating in the grand finale on November 19.
ENG vs NZ: As the teams settle in and start their practice sessions, fans worldwide eagerly await the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling World Cup. The grand welcomes extended to the teams have set the tone for an exhilarating tournament.