Rita Ora and Clean Bandit Headline T20 World Cup Final

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-07-04

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 final is shaping up to be more than just a cricket match. It's going to be a full-blown entertainment spectacle. Global pop stars Rita Ora and Clean Bandit have been confirmed to headline the closing ceremony at Lord's Cricket Ground in London on Sunday, July 5, 2026. If you love big music moments and world-class sport, this is where you want to be. ### A Star-Studded Finale at Lord's The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced these major acts to celebrate the conclusion of the biggest-ever women's cricket tournament. Rita Ora will perform during the pre-match closing ceremony, bringing her high-energy stage presence to the "Home of Cricket." Then, after the final ball is bowled and the trophy is handed over, Clean Bandit will take over. The multi-platinum electronic pop group will close out the tournament with a signature performance. It's a rare double-header that blends sport and music on a global stage. ### Rita Ora to Lead Pre-Match Celebrations British singer-songwriter Rita Ora is expected to light up Lord's long before the first ball is bowled. She'll headline the pre-match closing ceremony, which officially kicks off at 2:30 PM local time. Fans can look forward to an energetic set featuring her many chart-topping hits. The ICC picked Ora to give the championship game a lively, celebratory feel. This is a defining moment where sport and music meet, and it shows how women's sport is growing—attracting world-class entertainers like never before. ### Important Timings for Spectators If you're planning to attend, here's what you need to know. The ICC has issued specific instructions to ticket holders to ensure nobody misses the show. Gates at Lord's will open at 1:00 PM local time, giving you plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere. Officials ask that all spectators be seated by 2:00 PM, as the ceremony begins at 2:30 PM sharp. Don't be late—you won't want to miss a second of the action. ### Clean Bandit to Perform After Trophy Presentation Here's the best part: the entertainment doesn't end when the final ball is bowled. Clean Bandit will take the stage once officials crown the new world champions and complete the trophy ceremony. Known for their electronic pop anthems and global success, they're the perfect grand finale. Their performance will send fans home on a high after a day of intense sport. With this dual line-up, Lord's becomes a hub of entertainment from start to finish. ### Australia and England Set for a Blockbuster Final Of course, the music is just the backdrop. The main event is the cricket itself. Australia and England, two of the world's best teams, will clash for the trophy. Australia secured their spot first by defeating the West Indies in the semi-finals. They're the most successful team in the history of the competition. England, the tournament hosts, reached the final after a dominant victory over South Africa at The Oval. This match promises to be a repeat of many famous cricket battles between these two fierce rivals. ### A Tournament of Firsts for Women's Cricket The 2026 event has already redefined how people view global cricket tournaments. It began on June 12, 2026, with a spectacular opening ceremony featuring the cast of the musical *Wicked*. Now, with Rita Ora and Clean Bandit headlining the final, this tournament is setting a new standard. It's not just about the game anymore—it's about creating unforgettable experiences that draw in new fans. Women's cricket is no longer just growing; it's taking center stage, and the world is watching. - **Key dates:** Final on July 5, 2026, at Lord's Cricket Ground, London. - **Entertainment:** Rita Ora pre-match, Clean Bandit post-match. - **Match start:** 2:30 PM local time; gates open at 1:00 PM. - **Finalists:** Australia vs. England. This is more than a cricket match. It's a celebration of sport, music, and the incredible rise of women's athletics. Whether you're in the stands or watching from home, you're in for a treat.