NE NEWS SERVICE
MUMBAI, DECEMBER 3
Sports and Brand Guru Shailendra Singh will lead the Indian team in the over 50s World Cup to be held in South Africa next year. To be played in Cape Town and Stellenbosch, between March 10-24, 2020. West Indies, Namibia and Zimbabwe will also be making their debut in the tournament this year, a release said here on Tuesday.
An elated Shailendra says: “I’ve captained Bombay Gym for 15 years, I represented the entire ’83 team during their streak and I’ve played against the greats in county cricket in England and Scotland. I’m excited for the chance to lead India in it’s World Cup effort and, along with Ajoy Roy, hope to bring the cup back to India and make the entire nation proud.”
While the rest of the squad is yet to be finalized, so also the team’s jerseys, what is decided is that India is placed in the ‘B’ Division with countries like Pakistan, England and South Africa. Division ‘B’ includes Australia, West Indies, New Zealand and Sri Lanka, among others. India begins the 50 over tournament with a match against England on March 5, at Green Point Cricket Club.
Ajoy Roy who is the President of India Over 50s Association says, “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.” And that’s exactly what the Indian team hopes to do in their first showing against eleven others.”
Cricket legend Kapil Dev is extremely excited about this tournament and has also voiced his feelings. Kapil Says, ” I know Shailendra for over 30 years, his dedication towards the work, towards playing cricket or for anything is commendable. This is a beautiful moment, he is going to play cricket above 50 representing India and going to lead the World Cup. I want to wish him and his entire team good luck. Do well boys and we are with you all the way and enjoy the game.”
The first ever over-50s World Cup was played in Sydney (Australia) in 2018 and the cup was won by Australia. Matches were played with the pink ball because of floodlights.
