Laura Wright stepped into the spotlight at Headingley, Leeds, on Wednesday, August 19, as the British singer performed Pakistan’s national anthem before the first Test between England and Pakistan. Her performance added a distinctive touch to the opening ceremony of the highly anticipated series opener, but Wright is no stranger to major sporting occasions. The Suffolk-born mezzo-soprano has built a long association with international sport, regularly performing anthems at some of Britain’s biggest sporting venues and events.
Who is Laura Wright, the singer at England vs Pakistan Test?
Born in Framsden, Suffolk, in 1990, Laura Wright developed her musical career from a young age. She won BBC Radio 2’s Chorister of the Year competition at 15 before joining the classical crossover group All Angels a year later. She subsequently pursued a solo career and studied opera at London’s Royal College of Music.
Her profile extends well beyond the traditional concert stage. Wright became the first official anthem singer for England Rugby and has performed at Twickenham, Wembley and a host of major sporting events, including the Rugby World Cup, FA Cup Final, British Grand Prix and NFL fixtures in London.
The singer has also developed a strong connection with cricket. In 2016, Wright composed “Heroes”, which became the first official anthem of the England Women’s Cricket Team. She has additionally represented the Kia Women’s Cricket League as its first ambassador.
Watch Laura Wright’s Pakistan anthem performance at Headingley, Leeds:
A stunning performance and a beautiful start to this Test series.@thelaurawright sings the national anthem of Pakistan a cappella. pic.twitter.com/zkTiRN60PU
— Test Match Special (@bbctms) August 19, 2026
Laura Wright’s connection with sporting anthems
Laura Wright’s appearance at Headingley is the latest chapter in a career closely intertwined with sport. Her repertoire and experience have made her a familiar presence at high-profile fixtures, where national anthems often form a symbolic part of the pre-match occasion.
She has also performed for royalty, including at Westminster Abbey and during celebrations connected with Queen Elizabeth II. In September 2022, Wright sang “God Save the King” before England’s Test against South Africa at The Oval, marking the first official sporting performance of the anthem in its new form following the Queen’s death.
