New Delhi, Jan 21 (NationPress) The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has made a significant mark by visiting the alma maters of Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, and Sanju Samson as part of the ‘Class of 26’ series. This program aims to honor the early careers of these World Cup players while inspiring the youth across the nation during the World Cup Trophy Tour.

The Class of 26 initiative intends to return the prestigious trophy to their schools, which were the starting points of each player's journey in cricket. The players aspire to create history by defending the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title on home soil. Their mission is to bring back the trophy to the institutions where their ambitions first ignited, and their potential was recognized.

Linking the trophy to the players' formative years acknowledges their path from school-day aspirations to global recognition, emphasizing to students that every successful career begins with a dream. These engagements transform the trophy from merely a symbol of achievement to a reflection of future possibilities.

The Class of 26 also sheds light on the extensive efforts behind each World Cup appearance, showcasing the years of dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance that shape an international career. Through engaging and interactive activities, young fans celebrate and connect with the trophy, encouraging them to dream big and building excitement for the upcoming tournament.

At each institution, the trophy was welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour. Students participated in fun activities alongside the tournament mascots, Blaze and Tonk. They engaged in interactive games and challenges, with winners receiving ICC Men’s T20 World Cup merchandise, creating a lively and unforgettable campus event.

The initial stop was at MK High School in Vadodara, the alma mater of all-rounder Hardik Pandya. This visit was attended by Principal Vinaya Tulasi and Director Subhash Pandya.

Next, the tour moved to the College of Commerce in Patna, where wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan studied. This visit included Vice Principal M Faizal, Sports In-charge K.B Padmadeo, and various faculty members.

The final visit was to Mar Ivanios College in Thiruvananthapuram, where Sanju Samson pursued his studies. This event was graced by Principal Meera George and other faculty members.

Additionally, students at Mar Ivanios College expressed their creativity by writing Sanju Samson’s name using ‘post-it’ notes on a backdrop, along with personal messages for him, highlighting the emotional bond between players and their roots.

The tour will continue, visiting the former educational institutions of other squad members, sharing stories of ambition that paved the way to global success.

The Men’s T20 World Cup is set to occur from February 7 to March 8 at 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).