The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled a new anthem and music piece, composed by Grammy award-winning composer Lorne Balfe, to be featured across all ICC world events.
This new sonic brand will serve as the official anthem of the ICC, played at all matches to encapsulate the dynamic spirit of cricket across its different formats: Test, ODI, and T20Is.
Balfe, known for his compositions in cinema and television, has created music for recent works such as Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1, Life on Our Planet narrated by Morgan Freeman, Black Adam, Luther: The Fallen Sun, Top Gun: Maverick, and Black Widow.
The anthem will debut in the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup between the USA and Canada in Dallas, Texas on June 1, 2024.
Recorded at the renowned Abbey Road Studios in London, the score utilizes a variety of orchestral instruments, cricket equipment, and in-game sounds to create a rousing and awe-inspiring soundscape.
It captures the anticipation before play begins, the triumph at the end of matches, and the celebration of an eventual trophy lift, celebrating the rich tapestry of cricket culture.
Balfe expressed his delight in leading this landmark project, describing the anthem as an embodiment of the spirit of the game. “It’s been a great experience working with the ICC and composing the new anthem.
It’s an anthem of unity and the goal was to echo the spirit of every boundary crossed and wicket taken in this wonderful, timeless sport,” he said.
Chris Tetley, the ICC Head of Events, emphasized the importance of having an official auditory experience that matches the intensity of the sport on the field.
“We are delighted to share this special project with the world. This new sonic brand identity has been in the works for some time and the process of getting to the final product has been as intricate as the music piece itself.
“We are proud to have a sonic logo that matches the visual work that takes place both on and off the field.
“The music will serve as an auditory expression of our sport’s unique nature of nation versus nation competition and the significance of World Cup events.
Our objective is for it to bring cricket top of mind whenever it is heard and will take listeners on the journey of highs, lows, anticipation, and triumph that the sport is well known for.
“It has been a delight to partner with COOL Music Ltd who has led on this project to bring the passion of cricket and music together.”
