Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced via its X page today that Superstar Rajinikanth has joined the list of actors to be invited to the Cricket World Cup 2023 with a golden ticket. Sharing a picture of BCCI secretary Jay Shah with Rajini, BCCI wrote in its post,

The Phenomenon Beyond Cinema! The BCCI Honorary Secretary@JayShah presented the golden ticket to Shri @rajinikanth, the true embodiment of charisma and cinematic brilliance. The legendary actor has left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions, transcending language and culture. We are thrilled to announce that Thalaiva will grace the @ICC @cricketworldcup 2023 as our distinguished guest and will light up the biggest cricketing spectacle with his presence. #GoldenTicket

BCCI had earlier handed over golden tickets to ace cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and Bollywood veteran Amitabh Bachchan. Rajinikanth is the first South star actor to receive this special golden ticket invite. The initiative is BCCI's promotional strategy for the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup which is the 13th edition of the Cricket World Cup.

The Phenomenon Beyond Cinema! 🎬

The BCCI Honorary Secretary @JayShah presented the golden ticket to Shri @rajinikanth, the true embodiment of charisma and cinematic brilliance. The legendary actor has left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions, transcending language and… pic.twitter.com/IgOSTJTcHR

— BCCI (@BCCI) September 19, 2023

I am extremely happy to receive the prestigious Golden Ticket from BCCI for @ICC @CricketWorldCup 2023. My heartfelt thanks to BCCI..

Dear Jayshahji… it was a pleasure to meet you..Thank you very much for your warm words and thoughts.@BCCI @JayShah #GoldenTicket

— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) September 20, 2023

Recipients of this golden ticket will get VIP treatment during the event, which is scheduled to take place in India between October 5, 2023 to November 19, 2023. A total of 10 international cricket teams are participating in this tournament.