The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has kicked off the ‘Class of 26’ series, spotlighting the alma maters of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, and Sanju Samson. This initiative celebrates the early careers of current World Cup players and aims to inspire the next generation across the nation during the World Cup Trophy Tour.
Celebrating Early Journeys
The Class of 26 intends to return the prestigious trophy to the schools where each Indian cricket team member’s journey began. Their goal is to make history by defending the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title on home ground, bringing the trophy back to the places that ignited the ambitions of these talented players, where their skills were first recognized and nurtured.
By connecting the trophy to the players’ formative years, the series honors their early journey from school dreams to international stardom. It serves as a reminder to students that every successful career starts with a dream. These visits transform the trophy from a mere symbol of global achievement into a reflection of potential.
Inspiring Future Generations
The Class of 26 also emphasizes the extensive journey behind each World Cup appearance, showcasing the years of discipline, sacrifice, and persistence that characterize an international career. Through interactive and enjoyable activities, young fans celebrate and connect with the trophy, inspiring them to dream big and elevating excitement for the upcoming global tournament.
At all three institutions visited, the trophy was met with a ceremonial guard of honour. Students engaged in activities with Blaze and Tonk, the tournament mascots, and participated in interactive games and challenges, with winners receiving ICC Men’s T20 World Cup merchandise. This contributed to a lively and memorable campus tour.
Visits to Notable Institutions
The first visit was to MK High School in Vadodara, where India all-rounder Hardik Pandya studied. The event was attended by Principal Vinaya Tulasi and Director Subhash Pandya.
Next, the tour moved to the College of Commerce in Patna, attended by wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan. Vice Principal M Faizal, Sports In-charge K.B Padmadeo, and other faculty members, including Mukesh Kumar Madhukar, Prof. Mridula Kumari, Manisha Roy, Ayan Mukherjee, and Satyam Kumar, were present.
The final stop was Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram, where India wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson studied. Principal Meera George and faculty members including Bursar Fr. Thomas Kaiyaleckal, Tom Thomas, Jiji Kurian, Ratheesh R, and Deepa Mary Joseph attended the event.
At Mar Ivanios College, students added creativity by writing Sanju Samson’s name with ‘post-it’ notes on a backdrop and leaving messages for him, highlighting the emotional connection between players and their roots.
Upcoming Engagements
The tour will continue with visits to the former educational institutions of other squad members, sharing stories of ambition that began there and led to global success.
The Men’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to take place from February 7 to March 8 across various venues in India and Sri Lanka, including Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad), MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai), Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi), Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai), Eden Gardens (Kolkata), R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo), Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground (Colombo), and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy).