Yuvraj Singh Rings Lord’s Iconic Bell Ahead of India-England ODI Decider

London, July 2026 : Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh added a memorable touch to the series-deciding third One-Day International between India and England on Sunday by ringing the iconic five-minute bell at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground, marking the start of play at the “Home of Cricket.”

Elegantly dressed in a tailored suit, Yuvraj performed the prestigious pre-match tradition outside the Bowlers’ Writing Room in the Lord’s Pavilion, drawing warm applause from spectators and cricket enthusiasts gathered at the venue. The ceremony, which has become one of Lord’s most cherished customs, signals that only five minutes remain before the first ball of the day is bowled.

Standing alongside Yuvraj during the occasion were his wife, actor Hazel Keech, members of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), and other dignitaries. Cricket legends Brian Lara of the West Indies and former Caribbean captain Clive Lloyd were also present at Lord’s to witness the high-stakes ODI that would determine the winner of the three-match series.

Ahead of the ceremony, the MCC had announced that Yuvraj would be the distinguished guest entrusted with ringing the famous bell, inviting fans to witness the special moment before the start of play.

The five-minute bell tradition was introduced by the MCC in 2007 and has since become a hallmark of matchdays at Lord’s. The honour is reserved for celebrated international cricketers, administrators and distinguished personalities associated with the game, making Yuvraj’s selection another recognition of his immense contribution to world cricket.

For Indian fans, Yuvraj’s appearance at Lord’s also revived memories of one of the country’s most iconic victories. At the same venue in 2002, the stylish left-hander played a match-winning knock of 69 off 63 balls in the unforgettable NatWest Series final against England. His partnership with Mohammad Kaif helped India script a dramatic chase, leading to one of the most celebrated victories in Indian cricket history.

Yuvraj enjoyed an illustrious international career, representing India in 40 Tests, 304 One-Day Internationals and 58 T20 Internationals. He was instrumental in India’s triumphs at the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011, where he was named Player of the Tournament for his outstanding all-round performances despite battling illness.

In recognition of his remarkable contribution to the sport, the MCC conferred Honorary Life Membership on Yuvraj in 2023. Since retiring from international cricket, he has remained closely associated with the game, mentoring promising young talents, including India opener Abhishek Sharma and current Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill.

His presence at Lord’s on Sunday served as a fitting reminder of his enduring legacy and the respect he continues to command in the cricketing world.