The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will begin with a high-energy opening ceremony in Mumbai on February 7, combining cricket with a grand mix of music and live performances. Fans attending the opening match can expect more than just on-field action, as some of India’s biggest entertainment names are set to take the stage.
The ICC confirmed that rapper Badshah, actor-performer Nora Fatehi, sitar artist Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, and legendary percussionist Sivamani will headline the ceremony. The event is expected to draw tens of thousands of spectators at the venue, setting the tone for the global tournament.
Badshah expressed excitement about being part of the celebration, saying music and cricket share a unique ability to unite people. He is preparing a high-energy performance designed for a worldwide audience. Rishab Rikhiram Sharma described the opportunity as a milestone moment, highlighting how Indian classical instruments like the sitar are gaining space on international stages. He will share the platform with Sivamani, whose percussion-driven set is expected to add a powerful live rhythm to the evening.
Sivamani called the ceremony a celebration of India’s passion for sport and sound, noting that both music and cricket connect people beyond language and borders. The performances will take place just before the opening match, creating a festival-like atmosphere inside the stadium.
India will begin its campaign in Group A alongside Pakistan, Namibia, the Netherlands, and the USA. The team will face the USA in its first match in Mumbai. A successful title defence would make India the first side to retain the T20 World Cup and also secure a third championship, strengthening its record in the tournament’s history.
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The Indian squad for the tournament includes Suryakumar Yadav as captain, with Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, and Rinku Singh forming the core lineup.
