The announcement comes ahead of the start of the monumental T20 World Cup, which is set to inspire a new generation of fans. Bolt, who presented Aitana Bonmatí with the World Sportswoman of the Year award at Laureus Awards, made history at the 2016 Rio Olympics with the 'Triple-Triple,' winning gold medals at three consecutive Games. He also carried the Paris 2024 torch across the Seine a month ago.

His journey to global fame began at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he set world records in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. Bolt currently holds world records of 9.58s, 19.19s, and 36.84s in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay respectively.

Usain Bolt said: "I am thrilled to be an ambassador for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Coming from the Caribbean where cricket is a way of life, the sport has always held a special place in my heart, and I look forward to attending West Indies matches at the World Cup and contributing to the growth of cricket globally.

"While I will of course be supporting the West Indies in the World Cup, the growth of the sport in the USA is huge for cricket. It's the biggest sports market in the world and the energy that we will bring to the T20 World Cup is a huge opportunity that will lead to the inclusion of cricket at the LA Olympics in 2028," stressed the Caribbean.

Bolt's ambassadorial role will extend to spearheading event promotion, including a cameo in the official anthem music video alongside Sean Paul and Kes. He'll be actively involved in T20 World Cup matches in the West Indies and engage in fan-focused events aimed at raising the profile of cricket in the United States. 

ICC Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Allardice said: "Usain Bolt is a global icon and we are thrilled to have him on board as an ambassador for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 to engage with a new generation of fans." 

"His passion for cricket is well known and makes him a perfect fit for this role. He will add another exciting element to the World Cup alongside his world record performances and energetic personality," added the Australian.

Fans of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 can expect to see top teams battle it out for glory, starting with the opening match between co-hosts USA and Canada at the Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium in Dallas, Texas on 1 June.