The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday (12 December) released the official anthem for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 featuring rapper Rouge. As South Africa is set to host the showpiece event, the global governing body has collaborated with the local artist who is highly famed for her hit singles such as Mbongo-Zaka and Dololo. The award-winning South African rapper asks fans to ‘Turn it Up’ in the video.
The artist said that she is looking forward to witnessing how the song will connect with fans and get them excited for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, but ultimately show their support for the ultimate prize in T20 cricket.
“It’s amazing how music has the potential to evoke different emotions to people, whether it’s happiness, sadness and excitement. When you mix sport and music you create positive connections with a variety of people and this is why we want fans all around the world to Turn It Up for what will be South Africa’s first Women’s T20 World Cup,” said Rouge.
Meanwhile, South Africa captain Dane van Niekerk urged fans to come together for the event.
“Looking back at the 2010 FIFA World Cup anthem, it brought so much joy to every fan as well as the players on the field. Now, that’s what we wish for with the song ‘Turn It Up’. We would like for people from every part of South Africa, different races and background to come together, support us and rally behind the tournament to make it memorable for the world,” ICC quoted Niekerk saying.
Notably, this will be the first time South Africa will be hosting the global event. As many as nine nations, Bangladesh, England, Ireland, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, West Indies and defending champions, Australia will reach the shores for the first time in the event’s history. The opening game will take place between South Africa and Sri Lanka on (Friday) 10th February at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town.
