The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 officially got underway on Friday, with hosts England facing Sri Lanka in the tournament opener at Edgbaston, Birmingham. The competition marks the largest Women’s T20 World Cup in history, featuring 12 teams competing across England and Wales.
The tournament will run until July 5, with matches being played at some of the country’s most iconic cricket venues, including Lord’s, The Oval, Old Trafford, Headingley, and Edgbaston. The expansion from 10 to 12 teams reflects the growing popularity and development of women’s cricket around the world.
Defending champions New Zealand will look to retain the title they won in the previous edition, while six-time champions Australia enter the tournament as one of the favorites. India, England, South Africa, and Pakistan are also expected to be strong contenders for the coveted trophy.
Cricket fans are eagerly awaiting several high-profile clashes during the group stage, including the much-anticipated India-Pakistan encounter scheduled for June 14. Organizers have reported strong ticket sales ahead of the event, highlighting increasing global interest in women’s cricket.
The tournament is expected to provide a major platform for showcasing the sport’s growth and inspiring the next generation of female cricketers. The final will be held at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground on July 5, where the 2026 champions will be crowned.
