Ichha Sharma, Pune
As the Cricket World Cup draws near and excitement builds after the recent announcement of fixtures, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced its mascot pair for the highly anticipated event. The mascots were unveiled during an event in Gurugram, India, in the presence of Yash Dhull and Shafali Verma, the captains of the reigning U19 World Cup Champions.
Image credits: ICC Cricket
These mascots originate from a fictional cricket realm known as the Crictoverse. The male and female mascots have been created to symbolize gender equality and diversity, representing distinctive traits.
The female character possesses a turbo-powered arm that hurls fireballs at incredible speeds, leaving even the most daring batters in awe. Her pinpoint accuracy, unmatched reflexes, remarkable flexibility, and unwavering determination make her an exceptional fast bowler. She carries a belt adorned with six power cricket orbs, each strategically designed for various game-changing tactics, showcasing her readiness to ignite the game.
On the other hand, the male character embodies a unique blend of sub-zero coolness and high-voltage batting prowess. His shots, ranging from subtle finesse to powerful sixes, resonate with an electrifying force that captivates the audience. His electromagnetic bat and versatile shot repertoire heighten the excitement, infusing the crease with energy and illumination through each stroke.
Fans have been given the exciting opportunity to contribute to the naming process of these mascots before August 27th. In earlier stages of development, fans played a vital role in shaping the mascots’ design through extensive surveys.
ICC’s Head of Events, Chris Tetley, expressed his delight about the mascots’ unveiling. He emphasized that these enduring characters signify cricket’s universal appeal, transcending cultures and borders. The mascots are intended to be symbols of unity and passion, representing both genders and promoting the essential concept of gender equality.
Aligned with the ICC’s and cricket’s commitment to connecting with the next generation of cricket enthusiasts, these mascots are designed to engage and entertain children, fostering a lifelong love for the sport that extends beyond ICC events.
Leading up to and during the tournament, the mascots will interact with fans in various ways, including in-person engagements, broadcasts, and digital platforms. Fans will also have the chance to purchase Crictoverse-themed products, including exclusive mascot-related merchandise such as sunglasses, both online and at the event venues.