Diversity
"As a leading global sport, cricket will captivate and inspire people of every age, gender, background and ability while building bridges between continents, countries and communities." - ICC's vision for cricket.
The 12 teams at the ICC World Twenty20 will travel to South Africa from five continents. Indeed, the sport's leading players are drawn from a collection of countries unique to cricket.
It is only cricket that brings together so many of the countries of the Caribbean for a common sporting cause; it is 'cricket diplomacy' that has helped draw neighbours India and Pakistan closer together in complex political negotiations; and the most historic cricket contest of them all - the Ashes series between England and Australia - while remaining an intense rivalry, is also the strongest bind between two nations separated by 10,000 miles.
It is for these and many more reasons that the sport and its participants can be proud of the unifying power of international cricket. And that is why players from across the cricket world will unite to celebrate cricket's diversity during the South African event.
"What I enjoy about playing cricket is that every tour is different and I have had the chance to experience things and meet different people that I would never have had an opportunity to if I wasn't an international cricketer," explains Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi. "I can't think of another sport which allows you to see so many diverse places."
For while participants in most other major sports fly-in and fly-out of their competition venues, international cricketers spend weeks, even months, absorbing cultures very different to their own and building friendships as well as rivalries.
"It gives you the opportunity to experience and hopefully understand other cultures," says Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds.
"Steve Waugh and John Buchanan were always strong on the idea that you should try to get the most out of touring when you experience a different culture."
During the ICC World Twenty20 some of the game's leading players will take time out from their intense playing and practice schedules to visit local cultural and educational projects.
To ensure that fans and families from across all communities can enjoy the game without being exposed to any prejudice the ICC anti-racism code - one of the toughest in world sport - will be in force at all three venues. Anyone found making racist comments will be ejected from the ground and faces a range of serious penalties, including a life-ban.
The final word on cricket's special place in today's global society goes to Kenyan legend Steve Tikolo.
"Cricket has more twists and tales than any other sports," he says. "I love this sport because it has a very proud history and it is getting stronger and more popular every day."
AB de Villiers - "Cricket is a growing sport in South Africa and it is increasing in all parts of the country, in all areas. Cricket's diversity is another great aspect of the game. Cricket has already brought me all over the world and as a player you are exposed to new cultures and countries which is always interesting and challenging. It is possible to make great friends and broaden your horizons and I feel fortunate to be in that position just by playing the game that I love."
Andrew Symonds - "Steve Waugh and John Buchanan were always strong on the idea that you should try to get the most out of touring when you experience a different culture. It's also a great sport in that a battler can get just as much pleasure from following the game as a billionaire."
Kevin Pietersen - "Cricket is such a diverse sport because it includes people from all over the world. It is unique and quite simply there is so much to enjoy about the game. I play the game because I enjoy it and if this event can get even more people involved in cricket then that can only be a good thing."
Shahid Afridi - "What I enjoy about playing cricket is that every tour is different and I have had the chance to experience things and meet different people that I would never have had an opportunity to if I wasn't an international cricketer. Whether I am talking to playing colleagues, the opposition or supporters, I really enjoy getting to learn about different places and cultures. Given that we travel for long periods of time around the world, I can't think of another sport which allows you to see so many diverse places, be it South Africa, the West Indies or Sri Lanka."
Shivnarine Chanderpaul - "It's a game of glorious uncertainty that can change at any minute. That's why it's good and that's why millions of people across the world love it."
Steve Tikolo - "Cricket has more twists and tales than any other sports because of its duration. It has one of the largest media and spectators following that remain involved until the final ball is bowled. I love this sport because it has a very proud history and it is getting stronger and more popular every day."
Vusi Sibanda - "I think people from around the world identify with the Spirit of Cricket and so find in the game things that appeal to them as values to cherish in everyday life. Having lots of people supporting you and knowing that you are representing your country motivates me. It boosts me mentally and helps me to perform to the best of my ability. International cricket for me is an honour and an opportunity to enhance my career."
Yuvraj Singh - "I love playing in front of large crowds all around the world. No matter what country you play in, people are always passionate about cricket. I like the fact the game helps bring people together."
Jeremy Snape - "I have been very fortunate to play cricket all over the world and make lots of friends from diverse backgrounds. Cricket has the special ability to bring people together with a common goal and understanding and international tournaments are a celebration of that."
Nathan Bracken - "Cricket has something that appeals to everyone, no matter the skill level there is always something you can do, and no matter what you do you can win a game for your team, whether with bat, ball or in the field. Every player has a chance to shine, that's one thing I do enjoy - knowing a game is never over that any player can change it and give your team that chance to win."
Ryan Watson - "There's something for everyone in cricket - playing, spectating, officiating or administrating... so let's all enjoy!"
Scott Styris - "I'm not sure why it is so diverse but it is probably for the same reasons that I enjoy playing international cricket. There are so many different cultures, religions and beliefs and most countries that play cricket I would never get to visit if it wasn't for this game. Traveling to some fantastic parts of the world has been one of the highlights of my career."
Tamim Iqbal - "Cricket allows people to find happiness and satisfaction. It generates arguments, debates and presents all kinds of intrigues. It is part of our everyday life. So people feel a sense of belonging to this game. When I see so many faces waiting for that thumping six or that cartwheeling stump it tells me that I have been blessed and I start to enjoy the game more."
Younus Khan - "I guess this is the only sport that allows you to travel around the world and play in different conditions, atmosphere and surroundings. Cricket is my passion not only because it has given me respect, recognition and is my livelihood but also because I have got to know different people, explore different cultures and learn so many new and good things in my life."