A first for women’s cricket, Nepal will stage the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier from January 12 to February 2, 2026. The competition will be held at two grounds in Mulpani, Kathmandu, the Lower Mulpani Cricket Stadium and the Upper Mulpani Cricket Stadium.
The final tournament fixture is yet to be announced, but the preparations have already begun as Nepal readies itself to host international talent in this high-pressure qualifying match.
Ten Teams to Battle it Out for Four Slots in 2026 T20 World Cup
The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier will have ten international squads, all competing for four highly prized places in the main tournament, to be hosted by England and Wales in June-July 2026. The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup will feature 12 teams, up from the 10 that participated in 2024.
Confirmed Teams for the Qualifier in Nepal
Five teams have so far qualified as follows:
Bangladesh and Ireland, as a result of taking part in the 2024 T20 World Cup
Thailand and Nepal, as a result of the Asia regional qualifiers
USA – from the Americas regional qualifier
The last five positions will be obtained via future regional qualifying tournaments:
Two teams from Africa
Two teams from Europe
One team from the East Asia-Pacific (EAP) region
Tournament Format: Group Stage to Super Six
The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier will have the following structure:
Two groups of five teams each
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The top six teams will proceed to the Super Six stage
A final match to conclude the tournament and find the Qualifier champion.
The top four teams will qualify for the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
Importance to Nepal and Women’s Cricket
Organizing the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier is a milestone for Nepal cricket, and particularly for women’s cricket. It marks the country’s increasing role in global cricket and demonstrates the ICC’s determination to globalize the game.
2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup: A Larger Stage Awaits
The first Women’s T20 World Cup with 12 participating teams will take place in 2026, marking a significant expansion of the tournament structure, which creates additional opportunities for emerging cricket nations. South Africa lost to New Zealand, which earned the championship title during the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup final.
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