The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 closing ceremony will feature performances by Ricky Martin, Sukhbir, and Falguni Pathak before the India-New Zealand final at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The event starts at 5:30 p.m. IST on March 8, with the match following at 7:00 p.m. IST. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner expressed confidence in silencing the home crowd.
The closing ceremony for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. IST on Sunday, March 8, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. Gates will open at 3:30 p.m. IST, allowing spectators to enter early and enjoy the pre-match entertainment. The ceremony will include music, lights, and cultural shows, headlined by Latin pop star Ricky Martin, known for hits like 'Livin' la Vida Loca' and 'She Bangs.' Joining him are Indian artists Sukhbir, recognized for Punjabi hits and Bollywood soundtracks, and Falguni Pathak, the 'Dandiya Queen' influenced by Gujarati music.
The International Cricket Council announced the performers on social media, stating, 'The stage keeps getting bigger! Joining Global Superstar Ricky Martin at the Closing Ceremony before the Final of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 are music icons Sukhbir & Falguni Pathak! Get ready for global hits and desi anthems as these legendary artists light up the biggest night in cricket.' The event aims to energize the crowd of nearly 100,000 ahead of the final between defending champions India and New Zealand.
India advanced by defeating England in the semifinals, while New Zealand secured their spot with a comprehensive victory over South Africa—described as a nine-wicket win in one report and a 10-wicket win in another. New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner commented on the challenge, saying, 'It’s going to be obviously a challenge where everyone knows we’re probably not the favourites. But yeah, I wouldn’t mind breaking a few hearts to lift the trophy for once.' He added, 'I guess that’s the goal, is to silence the crowd.'
All-rounder Glenn Phillips discussed facing India's Jasprit Bumrah, noting, 'He’s human as well. He is allowed to have a bad day, as are the rest of us.' In India, the ceremony and final will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and streamed on the JioHotstar app and website. A victory for India would mark their third T20 World Cup title and the first defense of the trophy on home soil.
