The glittering prize at the heart of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup carries an intriguing link to the Pink City of Jaipur, where its physical form was meticulously brought to life.
Jaipur-based trophy designer Amit Pabuwal revealed that he personally crafted the T20 World Cup trophy following an initial design concept developed by Australia’s Minale Bryce agency. The outline for the trophy took shape in 2007, coinciding with the launch of the inaugural ICC Men’s T20 World Cup edition. Once the concept was locked in, the International Cricket Council (ICC) commissioned Pabuwal to produce the actual trophy.
Pabuwal recounted to PTI that his prior work on the world’s largest silver “Friendship Cup” trophy for cricket had caught the ICC’s eye, paving the way for this prestigious assignment. “Once the design outline was finalised, the ICC assigned me the work of making the trophy. That is how the ICC T20 World Cup trophy was produced in 2007,” he explained.
Early plans called for a modern blend of titanium and glass to mirror the fast-paced, contemporary essence of T20 cricket. However, multiple prototypes encountered persistent issues, with glass elements fracturing during integration with the metal framework. After extensive trials, Pabuwal advised against the material combination due to its technical challenges, leading to the adoption of a more practical solution.
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The final trophy is constructed from silver with platinum plating, ensuring durability and elegance befitting a global sporting event. Standing approximately 21 inches tall and weighing about six kilograms, it represents both craftsmanship and resilience.
Pabuwal noted that the original trophy is preserved at the ICC headquarters, while victorious teams are presented with an identical replica to take home.
This Jaipur connection highlights the blend of traditional Indian artistry with international cricket’s premier accolades, adding a unique dimension to the tournament’s legacy as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
