Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup Starts This Week
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup is a celebration of women’s cricket on a global stage, where the best of the best gather every two years to showcase their skills. In this article, we recap the previous tournaments and share the squad information and the fixtures involving England as they seek to win the T20 World Cup for the second time.
This premier event, organised by the International Cricket Council (ICC), first took flight in England in 2009, with eight teams battling it out for the title.
However, the number of participating nations has only increased over the years, with ten teams in the 2014 edition and an exciting twelve teams set to compete in 2026.
Australia is the most successful team in the tournament’s history, with five titles. Other nations that have made their mark on the game are England and the West Indies. In addition, new Zealand, India, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan have all played their part, making it a true showcase of international talent and competitiveness.
The upcoming edition promises to be thrilling as the world’s finest women’s cricket teams compete for the ultimate prize in T20 cricket.
Here is a list of all the winners of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup:
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2009
The first edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup was held in England, and the hosts won the championship after defeating New Zealand in the final held at Lord’s. Katherine Brunt was named Player of the Match for her three-wicket spell, while Claire Taylor received the Player of the Tournament title for her 199 runs.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2010
Australia won their first Women’s T20 World Cup title in the second edition hosted by the West Indies. The Aussies defeated New Zealand in the final. Ellyse Perry was Player of the Match, while all-rounder Nicola Browne received the Player of the Tournament title.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2012
Australia clinched their second championship title in the third edition in Sri Lanka, defeating England in the final. Jess Duffin was named Player of the Match for her explosive 45-run knock, while Charlotte Edwards received Player of the Tournament title for her 172 runs in the tournament.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2014
Australia completed their hat-trick of championship titles in the 2014 edition hosted by Bangladesh, defeating England in the final. Sarah Coyte was Player of the Match with her best bowling figures of 3/16, while Anya Shrubsole was named Player of the Tournament for her 13 wickets in the competition.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2016
The 2016 Women’s T20 World Cup was hosted by India, but they were eliminated in the group stage. Australia lost to West Indies in the final. Hayley Matthews was Player of the Match for her 66-run knock and one wicket in 2 overs.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2018
Australia won their fourth championship title in the 2018 edition hosted by the West Indies, defeating England in the final. Ashleigh Gardner was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance, including three wickets and 33 runs.
ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020
Australia won their fifth and record-extending championship title in the 2020 edition hosted by Australia. They defeated India in the final with a massive 185-run win. Alyssa Healy was named Player of the Match for her explosive 75-run knock.
Note: The 2022 tournament was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
England Win Warm-Up Clash Against South Africa
The stage was set on Monday as England and South Africa clashed in a warm-up match for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. The English side emerged victorious in a hard-fought contest, securing a 17-run win over their opponents.
Sophia Dunkley got England off to a flying start with a scintillating 15-ball half-century, setting the tone for the rest of the match. Alice Capsey and Nat Sciver-Brunt both weighed in with crucial innings of 61 and 51, respectively, helping England post an imposing total of 246-7.
The South African side was up against it from the start, and they could not keep pace with the aggressive and positive approach of the English batting. Charlie Dean, Lauren Bell, and Sarah Glenn led the charge with the ball, each taking three wickets to restrict South Africa to 229-9.
England’s captain, Heather Knight, was hit in the face by a Nadine de Klerk shot but received prompt treatment and continued to lead her side with the same determination and resilience that has become synonymous with her captaincy.
England’s first tournament match is against the West Indies on Saturday, and with this victory under their belt, they will be brimming with confidence as they take to the field. The warm-up match showcased the talent and skills the English side possesses, and they will be looking to carry this form into their opening match and beyond.
Leg-spinner Sarah Glenn says England will focus on themselves rather than opponents after the win.
T20 World Cup 2023: Group 1
The teams are split into two groups, group 1 and group 2. Australia are the bookies favourite for the competition, with bet365 pricing them lower than India, the second favourites.
Australia T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
Australia is a force to be reckoned with in the world of women’s cricket. Currently sitting at the top of the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s T20I Team Rankings and reigning as champions, the “Southern Stars” have a proven track record of success. With an impressive five World Cup trophies under their belt, this team is geared up to extend their winning streak in the forthcoming tournament.
At the helm of this powerhouse squad is the fearless captain Meg Lanning, backed by the reliable vice-captain Alyssa Healy and the dynamic duo of all-rounder Ellyse Perry and bowler Megan Schutt. These women are not just some of the most talented players in the sport but also trailblazers who have left their mark in the annals of women’s cricket. Their skills, experience, and leadership make the Australian team a formidable opponent on the field.
Australia's all-conquering women's team has copped one of cricket's most shocking upsets in recent memory, falling to a #T20WorldCup minnow in a warm-up match 😲https://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket/australia/as-big-a-cricket-upset-as-i-can-recall-reigning-champ-aussies-stunned-by-world-cup-minnows/news-story/0cefc86dbe79f7fbb2e7ff61d29a0a37
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) February 8, 2023
Meg Lanning (captain), Alyssa Healy (vice-captain), Darcie Brown, Ashleigh Gardner, Kim Garth, Heather Graham, Grace Harris, Jess Jonassen, Alana King, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Wareham.
Bookies Odds: 8/15
Bangladesh T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The Tigresses of Bangladesh are poised to make their mark on the big stage, as they earned their place in the tournament by triumphing in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2022. These fierce competitors are now ready to take on the best of the best as they aim to make a name for themselves against the top-ranked teams.
With a squad that is a perfect blend of youth and experience, Bangladesh is a team to watch out for. Moreover, the squad boasts of players who have already proven their worth in the recent World Cup, including the dynamic stroke-maker Shorna Akter, who was rightfully selected for the team of the tournament. These players have the potential to cause upsets and turn the tables on the more established sides, making Bangladesh a team that should not be underestimated.
Nigar Sultana Joty (captain), Marufa Akter, Dilara Akter, Fahima Khatun, Salma Khatun, Jahanara Alam, Shamima Sultana, Rumana Ahmed, Lata Mondol, Shorna Akter, Nahida Akter, Murshida Khatun, Ritu Moni, Disha Biswas, Sobhana Mostary. Reserves: Rabeya, Sanjida Akther Maghla, Fargana Hoque Pinky, Sharmin Akter Supta.
Bookies Odds: 200/1
New Zealand T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The New Zealand women’s cricket team, the “White Ferns,” are determined to make a comeback in the Women’s T20 World Cup after suffering first-round exits in both the 2018 and 2020 editions. With a recent resurgence in form, the Kiwi side will be looking to build on their recent success and make a deep run in the tournament.
In 2022, the White Ferns proved their mettle, finishing with a strong record of 10 wins from 14 games. This impressive performance has given the team a much-needed boost of confidence, and they’ll be hoping to carry their form into the World Cup. With a team full of talent and a fierce determination to succeed, the White Ferns are a side to watch out for in the tournament.
Sophie Devine (captain), Suzie Bates, Bernadine Bezuidenhout, Eden Carson, Lauren Down, Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday, Hayley Jensen, Fran Jonas, Melie Kerr, Jess Kerr, Molly Penfold, Georgia Plimmer, Hannah Rowe, Lea Tahuhu.
Bookies Odds: 9/1
South Africa T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The South African women’s cricket team is gearing up for a shot at redemption on home soil in the Women’s T20 World Cup. After narrowly missing the title game in the 2020 tournament, the “Proteas” are eager to make the most of their home advantage and make a deep run in the competition.
Despite the absence of their usual captain, Dane van Niekerk, who failed to meet Cricket South Africa’s fitness standards, the Proteas still boast a seasoned and talented roster. The team will look to draw on their wealth of experience to navigate the challenges ahead and make a strong showing in the tournament. With the roar of their home crowd behind them, the Proteas are poised for a memorable run in the Women’s T20 World Cup.
Sune Luus (captain), Chloe Tryon (vice-captain), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Lara Goodall, Shabnim Ismail, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Laura Wolvaardt, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Delmi Tucker, Annerie Dercksen. Non-travelling reserves: Micaela Andrews, Tebogo Macheke, Tumi Sekhukhune. Bookies Odds: South Africa 20/1
Sri Lanka T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The Sri Lankan women’s cricket team, led by captain Chamari Athapaththu, is on a mission to break the curse of first-round exits in the World Cup. Currently ranked No. 9 in the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s T20I Team Rankings, the Sri Lankan squad is determined to make a deep run in South Africa.
One of the key advantages the Sri Lankan side holds is their formidable spin attack, which is poised to take advantage of the sluggish conditions in South Africa. With Inoka Ranaweera and Sugandika Kumari leading the charge as two talented slow left-arm orthodox spinners, and with the support of Oshadi Ranasinghe and Kavisha Dilhari, the Sri Lankan side is well-equipped to dominate on the pitch. The Chamari Athapaththu-led Sri Lankan team is a force to be reckoned with, and they will stop at nothing to achieve their goal of advancing to the next round in the Women’s T20 World Cup.
Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Oshadi Ranasinghe, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nilakshi de Silva, Kavisha Dilhari, Anushka Sanjeewani, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Malsha Shehani, Inoka Ranaweera, Sugandika Kumari, Achini Kulasuriya, Vishmi Gunaratne, Tharika Sewwandi, Ama Kanchana, Sathya Sandeepani.
Bookies Odds: 100/1
World Cup 2023: Group 2
England has been placed in Group 2. The bookmakers have them as the third favourite, ahead of New Zealand and South Africa.
England T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
Under the leadership of skipper Heather Knight, the English women’s cricket team is ready to make its mark on the world stage. Currently ranked a strong second in the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s T20I Team Rankings, the “Three Lions” have consistently been a force to be reckoned with in the sport.
With a rich history of success, the English team will be looking to draw upon their experience to secure their place at the top of the table. Back in 2009, they dominated the competition and claimed victory in the inaugural edition of the World Cup by crushing the Kiwis in a commanding six-wicket win. As they gear up for the forthcoming tournament, the England team has their sights set on the trophy, and with their skills and experience, they are poised to give their rivals a run for their money.
Heather Knight (captain), Nat Sciver-Brunt (vice-captain), Lauren Bell, Maia Bouchier, Katherine Sciver-Brunt, Alice Capsey, Kate Cross, Freya Davies, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Sarah Glenn, Amy Jones, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Danni Wyatt. Travelling Reserves: Issy Wong, Dani Gibson.
Bookies Odds: 4/1
India T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The Indian women’s cricket team, fondly known as the “Women in Blue”, received a much-needed boost of confidence as the U-19 squad brought home the inaugural trophy. This triumph is a source of inspiration as they now set their sights on South Africa and aim to replicate their success on foreign soil.
Congratulations to Indian Women’s team for producing stellar cricket to defeat England and win the inaugural ICC Under-19 Women's T20 World Cup. I’m sure every member of the team will go on to make our Country proud again in the future. #U19T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/V0qcesSdDy
— Lokesh Nara (@naralokesh) January 29, 2023
With a formidable line-up that boasts of talented spinners such as Deepti Sharma and Renuka Singh, along with powerful pacers like Radha Yadav, this team is ready to take on any challenge that comes their way. But the real showstoppers of the batting department are skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, the dynamic Smriti Mandhana, and the young sensation Shafali Verma. These three batting powerhouses have the potential to take down any opposition and make India a formidable force in women’s cricket.
Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Yastika Bhatia, Richa Ghosh, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harleen Deol, Deepti Sharma, Devika Vaidya, Radha Yadav, Renuka Thakur, Anjali Sarvani, Pooja Vastrakar, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Shikha Pandey. Reserves: Sabbhineni Meghana, Sneh Rana, Meghna Singh.
Bookies Odds: 9/2
Ireland T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The Irish women’s cricket team is set to make its fourth appearance in the world’s biggest T20 tournament, having secured its spot through the T20 World Cup Qualifiers 2022. With the competition fast approaching, the “Emeralds” are brimming with confidence, and they’re ready to make their mark on the global stage.
Recent victories, including a remarkable win against Pakistan in their own backyard, have only added to their momentum and determination. The Irish team will look to keep the ball rolling and translate their success on the field. With a solid foundation and a fearless attitude, the Irish women are poised to take the tournament by storm and write a new chapter in their cricketing history.
Laura Delany (captain), Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Arlene Kelly, Gaby Lewis, Louise Little, Sophie MacMahon, Jane Maguire, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Eimear Richardson, Rebecca Stokell, Mary Waldron.
Bookies Odds: 500/1
Pakistan T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The Pakistan women’s cricket team, led by veteran skipper Bismah Maroof, has been facing a difficult patch in recent months, with losses against top sides Australia and Ireland. However, despite these setbacks, the “Green Shirts” are determined to bounce back and make their mark on the Women’s T20 World Cup.
With a talented roster that includes Maroof, who holds the record for the most runs scored by a Pakistani player in T20Is, and Nida Dar, who holds the record for the most wickets taken in the format, the Pakistani team will look to their experienced stars to lead the way. Facing stiff competition in Group 2, with matches against powerhouse teams India and England, the Green Shirts will need to bring their A-game to the field if they hope to make a deep run in the tournament.
Pakistan women's team have arrived in South Africa for the ICC Women's #T20WorldCup 🛬#BackOurGirls pic.twitter.com/RGhiB3ikLQ
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 1, 2023
Bismah Maroof (captain), Aimen Anwar, Aliya Riaz, Ayesha Naseem, Fatima Sana, Javeria Khan, Muneeba Ali, Nashra Sandhu, Nida Dar, Omaima Sohail, Sadia Iqbal, Sidra Amin, Sidra Nawaz, and Tuba Hassan. Travelling Reserves: Ghulam Fatima, Kainat Imtiaz, Sadaf Shamas.
Bookies Odds: 100/1
West Indies T20 World Cup 2023: Squad List
The Caribbean queens, captained by the dynamic Hayley Matthews, aim to reign supreme once again as they embark on their World Cup journey. This diverse squad, comprised of seasoned campaigners and bright young talents, seeks to recreate their stunning 2016 victory over Australia and bring the trophy back to the West Indies.
Led by the experienced Stafanie Taylor, supported by the experienced duo of Shemaine Campbelle and Afy Fletcher, this team also boasts exciting prospects in Trishan Holder, Zaida James and Djenaba Joseph, who impressed in the recent U19 Women’s T20 World Cup. With a mix of youth and experience, the West Indies is ready to make their mark on the tournament.
Hayley Matthews (captain), Shemaine Campbelle (Vice-captain), Aaliyah Alleyne, Shamilia Connell, Afy Fletcher, Shabika Gajnabi, Chinelle Henry, Trishan Holder, Zaida James, Djenaba Joseph, Chedean Nation, Karishma Ramharack, Shakera Selman. Stafanie Taylor, Rashada Williams.
Bookies Odds: 50/1
T20 World Cup 2023 – Key dates
Here are the key dates to know from an English point of view;
February 10: The Women’s T20 World Cup starts with a Group 1 clash between South Africa and Sri Lanka.
February 11 West Indies v England (W) Group Stage match on Saturday at 1 pm.
February 13 Ireland v England (W) Group Stage match on Monday at 1 pm.
February 18 England v India (W) Group Stage match on Saturday at 1 pm.
February 21 England v Pakistan (W) Group Stage match on Tuesday at 1 pm.
February 21: The first-round matches finish with a clash between South Africa and Bangladesh.
February 23 and 24: The two semi-finals will take place at Newlands, Cape Town.
If England makes it to the final, it will take place on February 26: The Women’s T20 World Cup final will be played at Newlands, Cape Town. All games will be shown on Sky Sports Cricket and Main Event.