The International Cricket Council (ICC) recently unveiled the venues for the 2026 edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, with England set to host the tournament from June 22 to July 5,2026. This tournament is the biennial international championship, governed by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Cricket has evolved over the boundary ropes and has seen the growing interest of the spectators when it comes to the landmark event, ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. As it emerges and enters the 10th edition in the next year let’s look at its expansion.
At each edition of the tournament, a set number of teams qualify automatically, with the remaining teams determined by the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier. ICC’s expansion reflects its commitment to growing the women’s game and providing more opportunities for emerging cricketing nations.
The expansion is evident with its editions throughout, starting with 8 teams in 2009, to switching to 10 teams in the 2014 edition and now expanding to 12 in the 2026 edition. The 12 teams will be divided into two groups of six, with the top two from each group advancing to the knockout stages. The rise in participating teams sets the stage for further growth.
In the 2009 edition, 8 teams made their debut – Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and West Indies. Australia, being the successful nation, has won the tournament a record six times (2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023).
While England (2009), West Indies (2016) and New Zealand (2024) have one title each. Namely, Bangladesh and Ireland made their debut in 2014, followed by Thailand in 2020 and Scotland, in the recent 2024 edition. New Zealand are the current championship holders having won the 2024 edition for the first time, after defeating South Africa in the final.
However, the eight teams that have already qualified for the 2026 tournament are -England (hosts), Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies-the remaining four spots will be filled through the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier. The qualifier presents an opportunity for emerging teams to make their debut on the world stage.
The inclusion of debutant teams enriches the competitive landscape of the Women’s T20 World Cup underscoring the ICC’s dedication to fostering the development of women’s cricket worldwide. As the sport continues to gain momentum, we wait for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 as it promises to be a celebration of both established talents and emerging stars.
