England to host 2026 Women's T20 World Cup; India-Pakistan clash opens group
England to host 2026 Women's T20 World Cup; India-Pakistan clash opens group
England will host the expanded 12-team Women's T20 World Cup 2026, with India facing Pakistan in the opener and the final at Lord's.
The ICC has unveiled the schedule for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, set to be the biggest edition in the tournament’s history with 12 teams competing from June 12 to July 5 in England. The host nation will begin the campaign by taking on Sri Lanka on June 12, while India lock horns with Pakistan in a blockbuster match at Edgbaston on June 14. The tournament will culminate with the final at the iconic Lord's, cementing England’s hosting role in a standout year for women’s cricket.
A 12-team field features Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands, who earned their spots through a Nepal qualifying tournament, joining defending champions New Zealand, six-time winners Australia, 2016 champions West Indies, England, India, Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka. The group stage promises high-profile clashes, with Group A consisting of Australia, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and the Netherlands, while Group B includes England, New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland and Scotland.
ICC chief Sanjog Gupta described the schedule release as a milestone for global cricket, highlighting expanded participation, clearer pathways for players, improved production standards and increased commercial opportunities. He noted that recent world events have helped elevate the women’s game and expressed confidence that the 2026 edition will further boost its popularity and reach.
