The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 is set to become the biggest edition in the tournament’s history, with the full fixtures officially announced. Hosted by England, this 10th edition of the prestigious ICC Women’s T20 tournament will take place from June 12 to July 5, 2026. Cricket fans around the world can now gear up for a month of thrilling international action as 12 teams compete across iconic English venues.
The opening match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 will feature the host nation England taking on Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on 12 June. This high-stakes encounter sets the tone for what promises to be a landmark event in women’s cricket.
This edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup is historic, expanding the competition to 12 teams for the first time. The tournament will run for 24 days and include 33 matches across seven legendary cricket stadiums in England: Edgbaston, Hampshire Bowl, Headingley, Old Trafford, The Oval, Bristol County Ground, and Lord’s.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Key Tournament Info
- Host Nation: England
- Tournament Dates: June 12 – July 5, 2026
- Number of Teams: 12
- Number of Matches: 3
- Venues: Edgbaston | Hampshire Bowl | Headingley | Old Trafford | The Oval | Bristol County Ground | Lord’s
- Opening Match: England vs Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on June 12
- Semi-Finals: Scheduled for June 30 and July 2 at The Oval
- Final: Will be played on July 5 at Lord’s
- Defending Champions: New Zealand (Winners of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024)
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Group Stage Breakdown
The 12 teams are split into two groups, each consisting of six teams. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
Group 1:
- Australia
- South Africa
- India
- Pakistan
- Global Qualifier Team 1
- Global Qualifier Team 2
Group 2:
- England (Host)
- New Zealand (Defending Champion)
- Sri Lanka
- West Indies
- Global Qualifier Team 3
- Global Qualifier Team 4
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt expressed her excitement, stating that the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 feels like a tournament that could reshape the future of women’s cricket. She emphasized how playing on home soil will be a defining moment, not just for the players, but also for young fans who will be inspired to take up the sport.
“This tournament is a brilliant opportunity to inspire young people and captivate fans across the country,” Sciver-Brunt said. “It’s going to be unmissable – playing for the biggest prize, against the world’s best, at iconic venues. I can’t wait.”
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 is not just about the sport – it aims to leave a legacy. Tournament Director Beth Barrett-Wild highlighted the broader vision, stating that the tournament will help transform how women’s cricket is perceived globally.
“This World Cup provides us with an unparalleled opportunity to create a movement that goes beyond sport,” Barrett-Wild commented. “Each match, each run, and every cheer from the fans will be part of a transformative journey for women’s sport.”
With a total of 33 matches being played at seven historic venues, the stage is set for a record-breaking and memorable ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. The final at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 5 is expected to be a fitting climax to a month of top-tier international cricket.
Fans are encouraged to register their interest early to be part of this thrilling cricketing spectacle. With powerhouses like Australia, India, England, and defending champions New Zealand involved, the race for the trophy is wide open.
As anticipation builds, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 is poised to deliver not just sporting excellence but also to inspire the next generation of female cricketers across the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
1. When will the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 take place?
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be held from June 12 to July 5, 2026, across various venues in England.
2. How many teams are participating in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026?
A total of 12 teams will compete in the 2026 edition, making it the largest Women’s T20 World Cup to date.
3. Who is the defending champion of the Women’s T20 World Cup?
New Zealand is the defending champion, having won the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.
4. Where will the semi-finals and final be played?
The semi-finals will take place at The Oval on June 30 and July 2, while the final will be held at Lord’s on July 5, 2026.
5. Which teams will play the opening match of the tournament?
Hosts England will face Sri Lanka in the opening match on June 12 at Edgbaston.