Over 10,000 fans join Eoin Morgan for first Super Saturday of #CWCTrophyTour in Manchester
With just over two months to go until the opening match of the tournament, an entertaining blend of sport, music and culture thrilled fans in Exchange Square on the first ‘Super Saturday’ of the #CWCTrophyTour.
Hosted by BBC Asian Network presenter Noreen Khan, the day saw Morgan joined by former England players Sajid Mahmood, who played at the 2007 Cricket World Cup, Ajmal Shahzad, who played at the 2011 Cricket World Cup and social influencer JemelOneFive, while DJ Rio Fredika provided a captivating musical backdrop to the day.
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England skipper Morgan was pleased to get the opportunity to interact with loyal cricket fans, as well as those new to the game.
“Today is extremely exciting, I think these events are extremely successful,” said England limited-overs captain Morgan at the event in Manchester.
“For us as players they give us a great chance to go out and meet all the supporters regardless of what team you’re going to support.
“It’s a great opportunity for the cricket supporters and lovers around the world to grow the game.
"When you look around and see the people today who have turned out, it’s a real testament to the hard work the Cricket World Cup organising committee has put in.”
The celebration gave fans the opportunity to have their photo taken with Morgan and the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup trophy, while the takeover of the city was enhanced as a wickets mural was revealed in Thomas Street and High Street, giving fans the chance to win tickets to the highly-anticipated clash between neighbours India v Pakistan at this summer’s tournament.
During the course of the day, a cricket cage on site played host to a children’s cricket tournament, featuring children from Chance to Shine, a local business competition and a contest with members of the general public as Morgan, Shahzad and Mahmood all took part in the cage.
On display throughout was a large inflatable cricket ball with the words ‘Are you in?’ on it and the famous faces and fans alike pledged their support for the tournament by signing the ball, while there were also roaming Bhangracise and drum band performances which wowed those in attendance.