![ICC makes blunder during New Zealand anthem [Source: X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1772201447346_ICCmakesblunderduringNewZealandanthem.jpg?type=hq)
ICC makes blunder during New Zealand anthem [Source: X]
Even before the start of the England vs New Zealand T20 World Cup Super 8 match, controversy erupted during the national anthem of the Kiwis. The bizarre incident left the Black Caps player laughing out loud, as the organizers fumbled big time.
The New Zealand anthem was the first to be played, and in a big technical mistake, their anthem was sped up as it was played at almost double the speed. Even though it was a huge mistake on the part of the organizers (ICC), the Kiwis found a funnier side as several players burst out laughing.
Fans amused with massive blunder at an ICC event
The blunder made during the New Zealand national anthem was noticed by fans sitting at home, as several pointed out the error made by the ICC. While some found it hilarious, others criticised the ICC for disrespecting the Kiwi anthem (since it is an ICC event).
A similar mistake occurred during Asia Cup 2025
A similar kind of mistake took place in the Asia Cup 2025 match between India and Pakistan. The organizers mistakenly played a different song instead of the Pakistan national anthem, an incident that left everyone visibly frustrated and confused.
However, the mistake was immediately rectified, and the Pakistan national anthem was played as normal services resumed quickly.
A must-win game for New Zealand against England
New Zealand were placed alongside Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka in their T20 World Cup Super 8 group. Their first game against Pakistan was washed out due to rain, and the team followed it up with a one-sided win over the Sri Lankan side.
Although the Kiwis have a strong position in the Super 8 group, a slip-up against England could potentially allow Pakistan to make a comeback. If New Zealand beats England, it will qualify for the T20 World Cup semis, and Pakistan will crash out.
However, if New Zealand loses and Pakistan beats Sri Lanka, the net run-rate will decide which team goes through to the semis alongside England. A Kiwi loss, and a Pakistan win won't guarantee the Men in Green a place in the knockouts, but it would make their job easier.
New Zealand's road to potential T20 World Cup semifinal
New Zealand was placed in a tricky group alongside South Africa and Afghanistan, and while the Black Caps decimated every opponent, they faced a major hiccup against the Proteas.
South Africa defeated them, which turned out to be their only loss in the event so far. Their first Super 8 match against Pakistan was abandoned due to rain, and the team fought back to beat the Lankan Lions.
A see-saw battle is going on against England, with the Kiwis losing 3 wickets for 123 runs inside 14 overs as they aim to beat the Three Lions to secure a place in the all-important semifinal of the World Cup.
Also Read: Highest Team Totals in T20 World Cups, Till February 27, 2026
.jpg?type=mq "IPL delayed")
