The 10th edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup will begin with a clash between England and Sri Lanka.
India and Pakistan, two of the sport’s fiercest rivals, have once again been drawn into the same group for the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup. The tournament opener will see hosts England take on Sri Lanka.
The ICC had already announced the start and end dates for the tournament—set to be held in England and Wales—last month. On Wednesday, the full schedule and group breakdowns were officially revealed.
India and Pakistan are placed in Group A alongside six-time champions Australia and 2023 runners-up South Africa. Two more teams will join them through the qualifying stage.
Group B includes hosts England, defending champions New Zealand, West Indies, and Sri Lanka. Like Group A, two more teams will join this group after qualifying.
The tournament kicks off on June 12, 2026, at Edgbaston with England facing Sri Lanka. Just two days later, the iconic India-Pakistan clash will take place at the same venue on June 14.
India and Pakistan have been drawn into the same group in seven of the nine previous Women’s T20 World Cups. Only in 2014 and 2020 were they placed in separate groups.
A total of 33 matches will be played in the group stage over the course of 24 days. The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals.
Both semi-finals will be held at The Oval on June 30 and July 2. The grand final will take place at the historic Lord’s on July 5.
Matches will be held across seven venues in England.
This edition marks the expansion of the Women’s T20 World Cup from 10 to 12 teams.
Along with hosts England, seven other teams have earned direct qualification. The remaining four spots will be decided through the global qualifiers.
The qualifiers will be played early next year, with 10 teams divided into two groups. The top two teams from each group will move on to the main event.
Bangladesh will have to go through the qualifiers to secure their place in the World Cup. Teams that have already secured qualification for the qualifiers include Bangladesh, Scotland, USA, Nepal, and Thailand.
