Ahead of the clash between Afghanistan and Australia the Bristol community was invited to the grand unveil of the ‘Take Part in Giant Art’ project that took place at Bristol’s Millennium Square over the Bank Holiday weekend.
The event marked the commencement of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019 in the city, as it prepared to host three games, with the first game between Afghanistan and Australia.
To celebrate the world’s greatest cricket celebration coming to Bristol, an impressive 4-metre batsman has been painted to represent each of the ten competing #CWC19 nations, standing proudly in the city’s Millennium Square.
Bristol County Ground, home of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, will host three fixtures at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, doubling the number of Men’s World Cup games the ground has held, following one in 1983 and two in 1999.
On June 1, the community was invited to Millennium Square to join in the unveil of the cricketer that was hand painted by children, adults, artists and cricket stars, over three fun-filled days where the Bristol community came together.
The unveil was supported by ambassadors Jemel One Five, a born and raised Bristolian YouTube star, who unveiled the statue and comedian Mark Watson who also attended to partake in the day's activities.
The live #CWC19 day-night match between Afghanistan and Australia was screened during the day on Millennium Square, in addition to cricket games and activities, adding to the fantastic community event taking place in the square.
Director of City & Spectator Experience, ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, Paul Smith, said: “The Giant Art installation is the culmination of a brilliant community effort of painting from Bank Holiday weekend.
We are delighted to bring the colour and creativity of the city to life in this way, hopefully giving the people of Bristol another reason to cheer on the tournament while it takes place here. The live screening in Millennium Square also gave those that couldn’t be at the game a chance to watch some of the action at Bristol’s County Ground.”
Captain David Warner led holders Australia (209-3 in 34.5 overs) to a routine seven-wicket win against Afghanistan (209-3 in 34.5 overs) with an unbeaten 89 at the start of their World Cup defence.