Spectators hoping to purchase World Cup tickets online and gain entry directly through e-tickets will need to adjust their plans. The upcoming one-day World Cup will not offer e-tickets for entry into the stadium. Instead, spectators will be required to show printed tickets for admission. Even those who purchase tickets online will need to collect printed versions and present them at the entry gate.
To facilitate this process, each center will have at least seven to eight counters where spectators can collect their printed tickets. Sufficient time will be provided before the game starts to ensure a smooth distribution of tickets. Jay Shah, the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), announced this information, stating that they are making arrangements to ensure hassle-free ticket redemption at various locations a week before the event.
Shah explained the decision, stating that managing e-tickets at high-capacity venues like Ahmedabad and Lucknow could be challenging. Therefore, they plan to gradually introduce e-tickets for bilateral events first before considering them for multi-nation events like the World Cup.
Discussions with state cricket associations are ongoing, and they have until July 31 to finalize the ticketing matter. The ICC and BCCI will jointly announce ticket pricing, and a ticket partner has already been selected.
In addition to ticketing, Shah emphasized the importance of upgrading stadium infrastructure, particularly focusing on housekeeping, toilets, hygiene, and water facilities. To address the water aspect, the BCCI has partnered with Coca-Cola, the official ICC partner, to provide complimentary water to fans in the stands, available in bottled or glass form.
To enhance the overall fan experience, state associations have been instructed to install proper signage throughout the stadiums. This measure aims to contribute to an improved experience for spectators during matches.
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 will kick off on October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, featuring defending champions England against runner-up New Zealand in the opening match./