India vs Pakistan in New York is going to be phenomenal: Chris Gayle
"They (the USA) had a T20 tournament last year and it was a success. It's a big market, we just have to hope it will be a success within the United States,” Gayle said.
West Indies cricket icon Chris Gayle anticipates the upcoming T20 World Cup to be a grand success in the United States of America. Notably, this is the first time when the North American country will be hosting a major ICC tournament.
Gayle believes that the debut edition of the Major League Cricket (MLC) has already provided a foundation for cricket in the United States, and the forthcoming T20 World Cup has the potential to expand the sport's reach to a larger audience in the country. Gayle predicts a blockbuster encounter between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, which is scheduled for June 9, 2024.
Also read: T20 World Cup 2024: India-Pakistan clash sparks ticket frenzy
“The ICC (International Cricket Council) has been trying to get cricket on a global scale within the USA. India v Pakistan is in New York, I'm sure it's going to be phenomenal. They (the USA) had a T20 tournament last year and it was a success. It's a big market, we just have to hope it will be a success within the United States,” Gayle was quoted as saying by Cricket World.
Gayle optimistic about West Indies’ chances
The omission of West Indies from the T20 World Cup in 2022 and the failure to make it to the ODI World Cup in 2023 marked a dramatic nadir for the once-dominant champions of both formats, signifying a stark contrast from their illustrious past as champions of the T20 World Cup as well as the ODI World Cup.
Gayle remains optimistic, expressing his belief that the cricketers will elevate their game and deliver improved performances in the upcoming tournament. He is particularly eager to witness the Shai Hope-led side secure qualification for the finals.
“We missed out on the 50-over World Cup so this will be something fantastic for the guys to actually play for something. We just want to be in the (June 29) final here in Barbados. Anything is possible when you make it to the final. I'm excited for the people, to actually see a bit of cricket,” Gayle said.
Also read: ICC releases new promo of T20 World Cup 2024 featuring Virat Kohli's bowling
The highly-anticipated mega event is set to commence on June 1st, featuring USA and Canada in the bustling city of Dallas.
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