The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is ready to explode into life — and it won’t just be the cricket grabbing attention.
The ICC has officially announced a spectacular opening ceremony for the tournament, with some of India’s biggest entertainment stars set to light up the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai ahead of the opening clash between co-hosts India and USA.
With music, glamour, and a jaw-dropping trophy arrival planned, the World Cup is all set for a blockbuster start.
Badshah, Nora Fatehi and Top Stars Take Centre Stage
The opening show will feature performances from:
- Rishab Sharma
- Shivamani
- Badshah
- Nora Fatehi
The ceremony begins at 6:00 PM IST, promising an electric atmosphere before the first ball of the tournament is even bowled.
A powerful musical medley from Rishab Sharma and Shivamani will kick things off, setting the tone for what is expected to be a month-long cricket festival across India and Sri Lanka.
Trophy Arrival Like Never Before
Perhaps the most eye-catching moment of the evening will be the arrival of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Trophy — delivered in true cinematic style.
According to the ICC, the trophy will enter the stadium carried by a jetpack performer, creating one of the most dramatic World Cup openings ever staged.
The trophy will then be officially welcomed by:
- ICC Chairman Jay Shah
- Former India captain Rohit Sharma
Joining them will be 20 young ambassadors, each representing one of the nations competing at the tournament.
It will be a symbolic moment as the tournament is formally launched in front of a packed Wankhede crowd.
Opening Ceremony Access: Ticket Holders Only
The ICC has confirmed that only fans with tickets for the India vs USA match will be able to attend the opening ceremony.
Supporters have been strongly encouraged to arrive early, as missing the start could mean missing one of the most unforgettable pre-match shows in World Cup history.
A Perfect Start to the 10th Edition of the T20 World Cup
The opening ceremony marks the beginning of the much-awaited 10th edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
This year’s tournament features:
- 20 teams
- 4 groups
- 55 matches
- Hosted across India and Sri Lanka
Every side will be chasing one dream — lifting the coveted trophy on March 8.
And with such a glamorous opening night planned in Mumbai, the stage is set for cricket’s biggest T20 spectacle to begin in unforgettable fashion.
Opening Match Spotlight
The tournament opener will see:
🇮🇳 India vs USA
📍 Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai
🕕 Opening Ceremony begins: 6 PM IST
A packed house, a trophy entrance, Bollywood-level entertainment, and the first match of the World Cup — it doesn’t get bigger than this.
