Bangladesh Women in Tough Group as ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule Announced

The International Cricket Council has officially unveiled the fixtures for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, setting the stage for one of the biggest events in women’s cricket. For Bangladesh, the announcement brings both excitement and concern, as the team finds itself in a challenging group ahead of the global tournament scheduled to take place in England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, 2026.

With 12 teams competing across 33 matches and several iconic venues lined up, the tournament promises to be a landmark event for the growth of women’s cricket worldwide.

Bangladesh Qualifies After Global Qualifier Success

Bangladesh had to earn its place through the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier earlier in January. The competition served as the final pathway to the World Cup, where several emerging teams battled for limited spots.

Bangladesh successfully secured qualification alongside teams such as Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands, confirming their participation in the expanded 12-team tournament.

The qualification campaign demonstrated the growing competitiveness of the Bangladesh women’s team, which has steadily improved in international cricket over the last decade. Led by experienced players and emerging talents, the side now aims to carry that momentum into the global stage.

Tough Group Draw Raises Challenge for Bangladesh

While qualification was a major achievement, the fixtures reveal that Bangladesh will face a demanding group stage. The group includes former champions like India, Australia, Pakistan, South Africa and the Netherlands, meaning the team will need consistent performances to advance to the knockout rounds.

Ireland and Scotland are placed in Group B, along with England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies

For Bangladesh, the draw presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Facing higher-ranked teams early in the tournament could test their depth, but it also provides a platform to make a statement on the global stage.

Cricket analysts believe that the opening matches will be crucial in shaping Bangladesh’s campaign. A strong start could boost confidence and improve their chances of progressing further in the competition.

England and Wales Set to Host Major Women’s Cricket Event

The 10th edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup will be hosted across England and Wales, featuring some of the most historic cricket venues in the world. The final is scheduled to take place at Lord’s Cricket Ground, one of the most iconic stadiums in international cricket.

Other venues expected to host matches include Old Trafford, Headingley, Edgbaston, The Oval, the Rose Bowl, and Bristol County Ground.

Hosting the tournament in England and Wales is seen as a significant step toward increasing the global reach of women’s cricket, with strong fan engagement and extensive broadcast coverage anticipated.

Importance of the Tournament for Bangladesh Women’s Cricket

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup represents a critical opportunity for Bangladesh to strengthen its presence in international cricket. Over the years, the team has shown gradual improvement and has produced notable performances against established cricketing nations.

Participation in a high-profile tournament like the T20 World Cup allows players to gain exposure, develop skills, and compete at the highest level. For Bangladesh, the competition is also important for inspiring the next generation of female cricketers in the country.

Cricket administrators and fans alike hope that a strong performance in the tournament will accelerate the growth of women’s cricket in Bangladesh.

Key Players to Watch from Bangladesh

As Bangladesh prepares for the tournament, several players are expected to play crucial roles in the campaign. Experienced performers Nahida Akter, Fargana Haque, along with emerging talents Sobhana Mostary and Lata Mondol will be vital in tackling stronger opposition in the group stage.

Nigar Sultana Joty’s leadership will also play a key role, with team management focusing on strategy, match preparation, and adaptability to different conditions in England and Wales.

Bangladesh’s bowling attack led by Shorifa Khatun and Fahima Khatun and fielding standards could become decisive factors, particularly in T20 cricket where small moments often determine match outcomes.

Global Spotlight on Women’s Cricket

The 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup is expected to attract global attention, as women’s cricket continues to grow rapidly in popularity. Expanding the tournament to 12 teams highlights the ICC’s commitment to developing the women’s game across different regions.

With increasing investment, improved facilities, and stronger international competition, women’s cricket is entering a new era. Events like the T20 World Cup provide players with opportunities to showcase their talent while helping the sport reach new audiences.

For Bangladesh, competing in such a tournament reinforces its role in the evolving landscape of international women’s cricket.

What the Schedule Means for Bangladesh

The announcement of fixtures gives Bangladesh a clear roadmap for the tournament. Preparation will now focus on training camps, strategic planning, and adapting to conditions in England.

The team will aim to approach each match with a balance of caution and aggression, particularly against stronger teams in the group. Cricket experts believe that disciplined bowling, strong partnerships, and smart game management will be key to Bangladesh’s success.

While the group stage may appear challenging, Bangladesh has shown in previous tournaments that it can compete against top teams when performing at its best.

Fans Eagerly Await the Tournament

With the schedule officially announced, cricket fans around the world are already looking forward to the Women’s T20 World Cup. Supporters in Bangladesh are particularly excited to see their team compete on the global stage.

The tournament is expected to deliver thrilling matches, memorable performances, and new milestones for women’s cricket.

For Bangladesh, the mission is clear: navigate a tough group, deliver strong performances, and aim for a historic run in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Full ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule

Friday June 12: England v Sri Lanka, Edgbaston 18:30 BST

Saturday June 13: Scotland v Ireland, Old Trafford Cricket Ground 10:30 BST

Saturday June 13: Australia v South Africa, Old Trafford Cricket Ground 14:30 BST

Saturday June 13: West Indies v New Zealand, Hampshire Bowl 18:30 BST

Sunday June 14: Bangladesh v Netherlands, Edgbaston 10:30 BST

Sunday June 14: India v Pakistan, Edgbaston 14:30 BST

Tuesday June 16: New Zealand v Sri Lanka, Hampshire Bowl 14:30 BST

Tuesday June 16: England v Ireland, Hampshire Bowl 18:30 BST

Wednesday June 17: Australia v Bangladesh, Headingley 10:30 BST

Wednesday June 17: India v Netherlands, Headingley 14:30 BST

Wednesday June 17: South Africa v Pakistan, Edgbaston 18:30 BST

Thursday June 18: West Indies v Scotland, Headingley 18:30 BST

Friday June 19: New Zealand v Ireland, Hampshire Bowl 18:30 BST

Saturday June 20: Australia v Netherlands, Hampshire Bowl 10:30 BST

Saturday June 20: Pakistan v Bangladesh, Hampshire Bowl 14:30 BST

Saturday June 20: England v Scotland, Headingley 18:30 BST

Sunday June 21: West Indies v Sri Lanka, Bristol County Ground 10:30 BST

Sunday June 21: South Africa v India, Old Trafford Cricket Ground 14:30 BST

Tuesday June 23: New Zealand v Scotland, Bristol County Ground 10:30 BST

Tuesday June 23: Sri Lanka v Ireland, Bristol County Ground 14:30 BST

Tuesday June 23: Australia v Pakistan, Headingley 18:30 BST

Wednesday June 24: England v West Indies, Lord’s Cricket Ground 18:30 BST

Thursday June 25: India v Bangladesh, Old Trafford Cricket Ground 14:30 BST

Thursday June 25: South Africa v Netherlands, Bristol County Ground 18:30 BST

Friday June 26: Sri Lanka v Scotland, Old Trafford Cricket Ground 18:30 BST

Saturday June 27: Pakistan v Netherlands, Bristol County Ground 10:30 BST

Saturday June 27: West Indies v Ireland, Bristol County Ground 14:30 BST

Saturday June 27: England v New Zealand, The Oval 18:30 BST

Sunday June 28: South Africa v Bangladesh, Lord’s Cricket Ground 10:30 BST

Sunday June 28: Australia v India, Lord’s Cricket Ground 14:30 BST

Tuesday June 30: TBC v TBC (Semi Final 1), The Oval 14:30 BST

Thursday July 2: TBC v TBC (Semi Final 2), The Oval 18:30 BST

Sunday July 5: TBC v TBC (The Final), Lord’s Cricket Ground 14:30 BST