Fri Sep 26 18:08:18 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Solemn Opening for Women’s Cricket World Cup in Guwahati After Singer’s Death**

**GUWAHATI, September 27, 2025** – The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will begin its India leg in Guwahati on September 30th with a significantly toned-down opening ceremony following the recent death of Assam’s beloved singer and composer, Zubeen Garg.

According to BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, the decision to scale back the opening event was made out of respect for Garg, who passed away in Singapore on September 19th under unexplained circumstances. What were originally grand plans have been replaced by a 40-minute tribute dedicated to the late musician. Renowned playback singer Shreya Ghosal will perform during the innings break of the inaugural match between India and Sri Lanka at the ACA Stadium, Barsapara.

“We decided to cut the frills and make it a solemn 40-minute programme dedicated to the legendary Zubeen Garg,” Saikia said.

As a further gesture, the ACA has purchased 5,000 tickets priced at ₹100 each for distribution to Garg’s fans on a first-come-first-served basis on September 29th at the Guwahati Sports Association office.

Beyond the somber opening, the tournament aims to boost cricket’s popularity among young girls, especially in smaller cities and rural areas. Mr. Saikia highlighted that moving matches to non-tier 1 cities aligns with the BCCI’s goal of expanding the sport’s reach. Navi Mumbai was selected as a venue for logistical advantages.

The BCCI has also extended invitations to all captains of the Indian women’s cricket teams since 1975. Several prominent former captains, including Shubhangi Kuklarni, Nilima Joglekar, Sandhya Agarwal, and Mithali Raj, are confirmed to attend and will be felicitated for their contributions to the sport. Rumeli Dhar and Jhulan Goswami are also expected to attend the other matches.

Neetu David, recently inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, will also be honored during the inaugural match.

The opening match between India and Sri Lanka will be held on September 30th in Guwahati. Other venues in India include Indore, Navi Mumbai, and Visakhapatnam, while Colombo will host matches in Sri Lanka. The tournament will continue until November 2nd.

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