The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 begins on June 12 in England and Wales, featuring 12 teams and 33 matches. India enter as strong contenders for their maiden T20 world title
New Delhi: The 10th ICC Women’s T20 World Cup gets underway on Friday, June 12, with hosts England taking on Sri Lanka at Edgbaston, Birmingham, marking the start of the largest edition in the tournament’s history.
For the first time, 12 teams will compete across 33 matches at seven venues in England and Wales, with the final scheduled at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 5.
India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. Having finished runners-up in 2020 and lifted the ODI World Cup last year, India enter the tournament among the favourites to secure their maiden T20 world title. Harmanpreet, alongside stars such as Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh, will spearhead the challenge.
Defending champions New Zealand, six-time winners Australia, hosts England, and consistent contenders South Africa are also expected to mount serious title bids.
The tournament features two groups. Group A comprises Australia, India, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and debutants Netherlands. Group B includes England, New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland and Scotland.
Australia remain the benchmark despite leadership and fitness concerns, while England will seek to capitalise on home conditions. Meanwhile, South Africa aim to finally convert recent ICC final appearances into silverware, and New Zealand hope to retain the crown won in 2024.
With established powers facing growing competition from emerging teams, the 2026 edition promises one of the most competitive Women’s T20 World Cups yet.
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