The upcoming India vs South Africa Test series has been named the Freedom Trophy to pay tribute to the two great leaders, Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, who were the biggest promoters of peace and non-violence worldwide. To honour their legacy, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has introduced a special gold coin for the toss in the first Test match at Eden Gardens on November 14.
Special coin for toss during India vs South Africa toss
The coin features Gandhi's face on one side and Mandela's face on the other, symbolising the values of freedom and non-violence. CAB President Sourav Ganguly revealed that the coin was made specially for the series, and it will be used for the toss ceremony.
"We have made a special coin for the toss, with Gandhi's face on one side and Mandela's face on the other," Ganguly said. "It's a unique way to pay tribute to these two great leaders."
Tickets sold out for the Kolkata Test
The first Test match between India and South Africa will take place at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and this is the first time in six years that the iconic venue will host a Test. Sports Tak understands that the tickets for the first three days are almost sold out, with 96,000 tickets sold so far, and a total of 1.4 crore tickets sold, according to CAB Treasurer Sanjay Das.
Security tightened at Eden Gardens after Delhi blast
The match is set against the backdrop of heightened security, following recent blasts in Delhi and Kolkata. The CAB and Kolkata Police have taken special measures to ensure the safety of the teams and spectators.
The CAB will also host Jagmohan Dalmiya Memorial Lecture to be held on November 13, before the first match day, featuring Sunil Gavaskar as the speaker, and will be attended by cricketers from both teams.