Music, glamour and cricket will collide in Mumbai as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off with a star-studded opening ceremony on February 7.
Mumbai is all set to witness a spectacle that goes far beyond cricket. As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 opens on February 7, fans arriving for the opening match will be treated to a grand musical celebration featuring rapper Badshah, actor-dancer Nora Fatehi, neo-classical sitar maestro Rishab Rikhiram Sharma and legendary percussionist Sivamani. The announcement was made by the ICC on Friday, instantly raising excitement levels among cricket and music lovers alike.
The opening ceremony promises to blend contemporary pop culture with India’s rich musical heritage, setting the tone for one of the biggest sporting events in the world. With nearly 60,000 fans expected to pack the Mumbai stadium, the night is expected to be a high-voltage celebration of sport, rhythm and global unity.
A Power-Packed Musical Line-up
Headlining the ceremony is Badshah, one of India’s most popular rappers, known for chart-topping hits that dominate party playlists and sports events alike. Expressing his excitement, Badshah said in a press note, “I’m incredibly excited to be part of this global celebration of sport, entertainment and culture. Music just like cricket brings people together, and I can’t wait to bring my energy to this incredible stage.”
Adding glamour and international appeal to the night is Nora Fatehi, whose performances have earned her a massive fan following in India and overseas. Though she has not issued a statement yet, her presence signals a high-energy dance performance that aligns perfectly with the World Cup’s global vibe.
The ceremony will also showcase a unique fusion of classical and modern sounds. Rishab Rikhiram Sharma, a leading name in neo-classical Indian music, will bring the sitar to a cricketing stage rarely associated with classical instruments. “I’ve always believed the sitar belongs in bold, unexpected spaces,” Sharma said. “Opening for the ICC T20 World Cup wasn’t something I imagined, but it’s a powerful step in taking Indian music to a truly global stage.”
Sharing the stage with him will be Sivamani, one of India’s most respected percussionists, known for his electrifying rhythm and collaborations across genres. “Music and cricket both speak a universal language,” Sivamani stated. “Performing at the T20 opening in Mumbai is an honour for me.”
Cricket, Culture and a High-Stakes Tournament
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 carries massive significance for Indian fans. Team India will begin their campaign on February 7 against the USA in Mumbai, making the opening match even more special. India has been placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, Namibia, the Netherlands and the USA, setting up an intense group-stage battle.
If India manages to defend their title successfully, history will be made. The team would become the first-ever side to defend a T20 World Cup trophy and would also lift their third T20 WC title, cementing their status as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.
India’s Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
India’s squad for the tournament reflects a strong mix of experience and young firepower. Suryakumar Yadav will lead the side as captain, with key players including Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya. The bowling attack features Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, among others, with Rinku Singh adding depth to the batting line-up.
A Grand Start in Mumbai
With a blockbuster opening ceremony and a crucial opening match, February 7 in Mumbai is shaping up to be a landmark day for Indian cricket and entertainment. As music legends and modern stars take the stage before the first ball is bowled, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 promises to begin on a note that celebrates not just the game, but India’s cultural energy on a truly global platform.
