The International Cricket Council (ICC) has dropped a bombshell with the release of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 schedule, setting the stage for an electrifying tournament in England. Kicking off on June 12, the event will culminate in a grand finale at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 5, promising fans worldwide a spectacle of top-tier women’s cricket.
Twelve powerhouse teams are divided into two groups, with the top two from each advancing to the semi-finals. Group 1 features a star-studded lineup including defending champions Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Netherlands, and hosts India. Meanwhile, Group 2 pits West Indies against England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Ireland, and Scotland in what promises to be fierce battles.
For Indian fans, the excitement peaks right from the start. Team India will lock horns with arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening clash at Edgbaston on June 14, a match already generating massive buzz. The schedule continues with Netherlands on June 17, South Africa on June 21, Bangladesh on June 25, and a blockbuster against Australia on June 28.
ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta hailed the announcement as a pivotal milestone. ‘This schedule marks a key step in preparations for this global premier sporting event,’ he stated. Gupta emphasized ICC’s ongoing investments in women’s cricket, from enhanced participation and performance pathways to elevated event standards, prize money, media reach, and commercial partnerships—all aimed at captivating a broader global audience.
Drawing parallels to the massive success of the Women’s Cricket World Cup in India, Gupta added, ‘That event supercharged the sport manifold. We’re committed to sustaining that momentum through this June-July extravaganza.’
India’s quest for T20 World Cup glory remains unfulfilled after nine editions, with semi-final appearances four times and a runner-up finish once. As the team eyes redemption in 2026, all eyes will be on whether they can finally lift the trophy and etch their name in history.