Overview
- Organisers scheduled a 14:30–15:00 BST outfield closing ceremony by Rita Ora on Sunday, which falls half an hour before the toss and reduces standard main-ground preparation time.
- England's captain Nat Sciver-Brunt said some players were unhappy about losing main-square practice for bowlers who normally mark run-ups on the match surface.
- Australia captain Sophie Molineux downplayed the disruption and took a light-hearted view of the pre-match entertainment.
- A late report said organisers allowed bowlers limited access to the main outfield before the performance, but that adjustment has not been confirmed by the ICC.
- Outfield showpieces are increasingly common at ICC events and the decision highlights the logistical trade-offs of combining live entertainment with elite match preparation and packed crowds.