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Warm‑up rules changed for Women's T20 final at Lord's

BBC Sport •
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The ICC reversed a pre‑final ruling, letting England and Australia warm up on Lord's main outfield before pop star Rita Ora’s set begins at 14:30 BST. Initially, teams were confined to the Nursery Ground until after the toss, creating a half‑hour gap for bowlers. The late amendment now permits bowlers to use the match surface before the performance.

Nat Sciver‑Brunt said bowlers prefer the practice wickets adjacent to the pitch, but accepted the compromise. England reaches its first ICC final since the 2022 50‑over World Cup loss to Australia, and its last global triumph came at Lord's in 2017. She highlighted the sport’s growth, noting record crowds and a more professional environment than a decade ago.

Both teams now face a narrow window between Ora’s half‑hour show and the toss, forcing bowlers to adjust routines. Australia, unbeaten in the tournament, will test an English side eager to overturn the 16‑0 Ashes defeat earlier this year. With the stage set at the historic venue, the final will decide who lifts the women's T20 crown. It promises a memorable showdown.