Shreya Ghoshal sings National Anthem live at ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Opener in Guwahati

Shreya Ghoshal sings National Anthem live at ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 Opener in Guwahati

The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 kicked off in style at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati, and the moment that stole the spotlight even before the first ball was bowled came from India’s very own playback icon, Shreya Ghoshal. Draped in a traditional Indian sari, Ghoshal delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem that instantly electrified the crowd. Her melodious voice and grace added a cultural resonance that had thousands inside the stadium rise in applause, capturing the spirit of the occasion.

Anthem Sets the Tone

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The opening match featured hosts India facing Sri Lanka, with both teams eager to begin their campaigns on a strong note. But before the cricketing battle could unfold, Ghoshal’s anthem performance created a unifying moment. For many in the stands, it wasn’t just a formality but an emotional reminder of the significance of India competing on home soil for a title that has long eluded them.

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Sri Lankan skipper Chamari Athapaththu won the toss and chose to bowl first, hoping to exploit early conditions. India’s batters made a steady start in the powerplay, carefully negotiating Sri Lanka’s pace attack. However, the match was soon disrupted as rain swept across Guwahati, forcing players off the field after just 10 overs. Groundsmen rushed to cover the pitch, and fans braved the drizzle in anticipation of play resuming.

India’s hopes of a commanding start took a hit when opener Smriti Mandhana fell cheaply. Attempting to loft Udeshika Prabodhani over the off side, she mistimed her shot and offered a straightforward catch to Vishmi Gunaratne. The dismissal handed Sri Lanka the early momentum, leaving the home side with work to do once play resumed.

India enters the tournament as one of the favorites, aiming to secure a maiden Women’s World Cup trophy. For Sri Lanka, this marks a return to the global stage after an eight-year absence, carrying echoes of their 2013 upset win over India when the country last hosted. With Shreya Ghoshal’s anthem still ringing in the air, the contest promised drama, resilience, and the chance for history to be rewritten.