KEY POINTS
- Tournament is scheduled in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, 2026.
- Anthem, composed by Anirudh Ravichander, aims to unite global cricket fans.
- Release marks the start of the official countdown for the multi-nation event.
DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday launched the official anthem for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, releasing the energetic track titled ‘Feel the Thrill’. The tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
A musical bridge for global fans
The two-minute soundtrack was composed by celebrated Indian musician Anirudh Ravichander. In a statement released by the ICC, Ravichander expressed his honour at the association and described the anthem as an endeavour to unite cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
“Every cheer, every silence, every heartbeat connects in the same tune when it comes to cricket,” he said. “It’s a feeling, an emotion. This is our attempt to bring the global fans together in a spirited unity up and above the fierce on-field rivalry that is set to unfold across the subcontinent.”
View this post on Instagram
The accompanying music video captures the essence of the fast-paced format, featuring exciting montages of iconic moments from past tournaments. These include highlights from Pakistan’s 2009 title victory under Younis Khan, aiming to evoke nostalgia and anticipation.
Celebrating sport as a global culture
ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta emphasised the role of the anthem in transforming the 20-team event into a universal celebration. “ICC’s pinnacle events are global cultural extravaganzas bringing together the best of lifestyle, entertainment, community, and experiential diversity, with a compelling athletic spectacle at their heart,” Gupta stated.
He highlighted the unique appeal of the T20 World Cup, describing it as “uniquely competitive, thrilling and expressive, where moments turn into life-long memories for players and fans alike.”
View this post on Instagram
Gupta added that the official song aims to channel this vibrant spirit, using music as a universal language to connect diverse fans, celebrate the sport’s inclusivity, and foster a shared global experience.
The release of ‘Feel the Thrill’ marks the beginning of the official countdown to the tournament, setting the stage for what promises to be a festival of cricket across the subcontinent.
