Teams like Bangladesh, Ireland, and Thailand arrive at the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026 with strong qualifier pedigrees, while Scotland, the Netherlands, and Zimbabwe have shown significant recent progress at global events. Meanwhile, Nepal, the USA, Namibia, and Papua New Guinea represent the next wave of competitive associate nations, each pushing for historic breakthroughs, underlining the growing depth and competitiveness of the teams involved.
With four spots up for grabs, intense competition will shape the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. In this article, we have explored the complete landscape of the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026, covering the participating teams, group-wise lineups, confirmed squads, tournament format, and past winners.
Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026: Group-Wise Team Lineup
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026 features 10 teams battling for a place in the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup. The teams are divided into two groups of five, with each side aiming to finish first in their group to strengthen their qualification chances.
| Group A | Group B |
|---|---|
| Bangladesh Women | Netherlands Women |
| Ireland Women | Thailand Women |
| United States of America Women | Scotland Women |
| Namibia Women | Zimbabwe Women |
| Papua New Guinea Women | Nepal Women |
The group stage promises competitive cricket, with established sides looking to dominate and emerging teams hoping to cause upsets. Top teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage, bringing them one step closer to securing a coveted World Cup berth.
1. Bangladesh Women
Bangladesh Women are the most successful team in the history of the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, having won the title in 2018, 2019, and 2022. They also reached the main ICC Women’s T20 World Cup multiple times, including in 2023.
Led by Nigar Sultana Joty, Bangladesh relies heavily on spin, with Nahida Akter among the leading wicket-takers in women’s T20 qualifiers. The team achieved a historic milestone by winning their first Women’s Asia Cup in 2018. Known for disciplined bowling and improving batting depth, Bangladesh regularly dominates associate and lower-ranked full-member teams.
2. Ireland Women
Ireland Women won the 2015 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, marking their most significant achievement in ICC qualifiers. They have featured in several Women’s T20 World Cups, including 2014 and 2016.
Captain Gaby Lewis is Ireland’s leading T20I run-scorer and one of the most consistent batters among associate nations. Ireland recorded a memorable series win over Pakistan Women in 2022, underlining their progress. Their strength lies in a balanced squad featuring genuine all-rounders like Orla Prendergast and Laura Delany, which provides flexibility across the batting and bowling departments.
3. United States of America Women
The USA Women are among the fastest-growing teams in women’s associate cricket. They qualified for the Global Qualifier through strong regional performances in the Americas. Tara Norris, the first American to play in the Women’s Premier League, brings international-quality pace bowling to the team.
The USA Women reached the final of the 2023 ICC Americas Qualifier, showing steady improvement. The team builds its squad around youth and overseas exposure, with several players gaining experience in the UK and Australian domestic cricket. The team is still chasing its first qualification for the Women’s T20 World Cup.
4. Namibia Women
Namibia Women have emerged as a consistent associate side, qualifying for multiple ICC global events since 2021. They reached the semi-finals of the 2022 Africa Qualifier, narrowly missing World Cup qualification.
Captain Suné Wittmann has been central to Namibia’s batting resurgence. The team relies on disciplined bowling, often defending modest totals successfully in African conditions. Namibia Women made headlines by defeating higher-ranked sides during regional tournaments and have steadily climbed the ICC rankings. Their development program has produced several young multi-skilled players, making them competitive despite limited international exposure.
5. Papua New Guinea Women
Papua New Guinea Women are one of the strongest teams from the East Asia-Pacific region, having dominated regional qualifiers for over a decade. They have appeared in multiple Global Qualifiers, including 2019, 2022, and 2026.
PNG Women reached the semi-finals of the 2019 Global Qualifier, their best performance to date. Captain Brenda Tau is among PNG’s most capped players. The team is known for its athletic fielding and aggressive batting. While they have yet to qualify for the Women’s T20 World Cup, PNG remain consistent contenders at the associate level.
6. Netherlands Women
The Netherlands Women have featured in five Women’s T20 World Cups, including the inaugural 2009 edition. They reached the semi-finals of the 2018 Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, narrowly missing automatic qualification.
Captain Babette de Leede is one of the most experienced wicketkeeper-batters in associate cricket. Sterre Kalis has been among the leading run-scorers in recent qualifiers. The Netherlands is known for substantial all-round depth and tactical discipline. They recorded a memorable win over Ireland Women at the 2022 Qualifier, showcasing their ability to compete with top associates.
7. Thailand Women
The Thailand Women qualified for the 2020 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, becoming the first Southeast Asian team to do so. They dominated the 2019 Global Qualifier, finishing unbeaten. Thailand’s batting unit, led by Natthakan Chantham, has produced some of the highest team totals in associate cricket.
The team is known for exceptional fitness, fielding standards, and depth in spin bowling. The Thai women gained global attention for their spirited performances at the 2020 World Cup in Australia, despite facing top-ranked teams. They remain one of the most organized women’s sides in the league.
8. Scotland Women
Scotland Women qualified for their first Women’s T20 World Cup in 2024, marking a historic achievement. Captain Kathryn Bryce was among the top all-rounders of the 2023 Global Qualifier, leading both batting and bowling charts for her team.
Scotland defeated Ireland and Zimbabwe during recent qualifiers, showcasing rapid improvement. The team has consistently reached the final stages of European and Global Qualifiers. Scotland showcases strong leadership and game awareness, earning recognition as one of the strongest associate nations in women’s cricket.
9. Zimbabwe Women
Zimbabwe Women returned to ICC events after their reinstatement in 2019 and have since steadily rebuilt. They qualified for multiple global qualifiers, including 2022 and 2026. Captain Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano is Zimbabwe’s most experienced T20I batter.
Josephine Nkomo has been a standout all-rounder, ranking among the top wicket-takers in African qualifiers. Zimbabwe Women recorded a memorable series win against Ireland in 2021, signaling their comeback. While still chasing their first World Cup appearance, Zimbabwe continues to strengthen through increased international fixtures.
10. Nepal Women
Nepal Women are rapidly rising in associate cricket, driven by strong domestic participation and youth development. They reached the final of the 2023 Asia Qualifier, narrowly missing direct qualification. Captain Indu Barma is Nepal’s leading run-scorer in T20Is. Nepal Women recorded landmark wins over Malaysia and the UAE in ICC events.
Their matches in Kathmandu often draw large crowds, highlighting strong grassroots support. Nepal has not yet qualified for the Women’s T20 World Cup, but they have showcased disciplined bowling and improved their batting depth.
Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026: Complete Team Squads
All 10 participating teams have announced 15-member squads for the tournament. With several experienced internationals and rising talents on display, these squads will play a decisive role in determining which teams secure a place at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
| Team | Squad |
|---|---|
| Bangladesh Women | Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter, Sobhana Mostary, Farzana Haque, Sharmin Akter Supta, Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Ritu Moni, Fahima Khatun, Shorna Akter, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Sultana Khatun |
| Ireland Women | Gaby Lewis (c), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Laura Delany, Sarah Forbes, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell |
| Namibia Women | Suné Wittmann (c), Naomi Benjamin, Arrasta Diergaardt, Kayleen Green, Mezerly Gorases, Victoria Hamunyela, Yasmeen Khan, Eveleen Kejarukua, Mekelaye Mwatile, Wilka Mwatile, Bianca Manuel, Sylvia Shihepo, Saima Tuhadeleni, Edelle van Zyl, Leigh-Marie Visser |
| Nepal Women | Indu Barma (c), Puja Mahato, Rubina Chhetri, Sita Rana Magar, Bindu Rawal, Samjhana Khadka, Kajal Shrestha, Kabita Joshi, Kabita Kunwar, Rachana Chaudhary, Riya Sharma, Roma Thapa, Suman Bista, Rajmati Airee, Manisha Upadhaya |
| Netherlands Women | Babette de Leede (c), Caroline de Lange, Frédérique Overdijk, Hannah Landheer, Heather Siegers, Iris Zwilling, Isabel van der Woning, Lara Leemhuis, Merel Dekeling, Myrthe van den Raad, Phebe Molkenboer, Robine Rijke, Sanya Khurana, Silver Siegers, Sterre Kalis |
| Papua New Guinea Women | Brenda Tau (c), Pauke Siaka (vc), Melanie Ani, Hollan Doriga, Kevau Frank, Sibona Jimmy, Dika Lohia, Konio Oala, Miria Raio, Hane Tau, Henao Thomas, Geua Tom, Mairi Tom, Isabel Toua, Naoani Vare |
| Scotland Women | Kathryn Bryce (c), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji, Katherine Fraser, Ailsa Lister, Abtaha Maqsood, Megan McColl, Mollie Parker, Hannah Rainey, Niamh Robertson-Jack, Rachel Slater, Pippa Sproul |
| Thailand Women | Naruemol Chaiwai (c), Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, Chanida Sutthiruang, Chayanisa Phengpaen, Koranit Suwanchonrathi, Nannapat Koncharoenkai, Nannaphat Chaihan, Natthakan Chantham, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Phannita Maya, Suleeporn Laomi, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Suwanan Khiaoto, Thanrada Seesawan, Thipatcha Putthawong |
| United States of America Women | Aditiba Chudasama (c), Chetna Pagydyala, Disha Dhingra, Ella Claridge, Gargi Bhogle, Geetika Kodali, Isani Vaghela, Lekha Shetty, Maahi Madhavan, Pooja Ganesh, Ritu Singh, Saanvi Immadi, Sainavi Kambalapalli, Tara Norris, Taranum Chopra |
| Zimbabwe Women | Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano (c), Beloved Biza, Christabel Chatonzwa, Kudzai Chigora, Chiedza Dhururu, Nyasha Gwanzura, Lindokuhle Mabhera, Audrey Mazvishaya, Modester Mupachikwa, Kelis Ndhlovu, Josephine Nkomo, Loryn Phiri, Nomvelo Sibanda, Loreen Tshuma, Adel Zimunu |
Exciting players are poised to showcase their talents at the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026. Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty leads a strong batting unit, supported by spinner Nahida Akter and fast bowler Marufa Akter. Ireland’s Gaby Lewis remains one of the most consistent run-scorers, while Kathryn Bryce is Scotland’s standout all-round match-winner. The Netherlands’ Babette de Leede and Sterre Kalis add quality with bat and leadership. Thailand’s Natthakan Chantham brings top-order stability, and Zimbabwe all-rounder Josephine Nkomo offers impact in both departments. Together, these players promise a highly competitive tournament.
Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026: Format
The tournament follows a two-stage format: a round-robin group stage, followed by the Super Six phase. The tournament splits the ten teams into two groups of five, with each team playing every other team once, and the top three teams from each group advancing to the Super Six stage.
During the Super Six, teams compete against the three qualifiers from the opposite group, resulting in three matches per side in this phase. For instance, a Group A team will face all three teams advancing from Group B. At the conclusion of the Super Six stage, the top four teams on the standings will qualify for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier – Past Winners
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier has played a crucial role in shaping the global women’s game, giving emerging and established teams a pathway to the World Cup. Over the years, the tournament has produced several deserving champions, reflecting consistency, depth, and dominance in the qualification process.
| Year | Winner(s) |
|---|---|
| 2013 | Pakistan & Sri Lanka (shared title — final washed out) |
| 2015 | Ireland Women |
| 2018 | Bangladesh Women |
| 2019 | Bangladesh Women |
| 2022 | Bangladesh Women |
| 2024 | Sri Lanka Women |
The list of past winners highlights Bangladesh Women’s dominance in recent editions, while teams like Ireland and Sri Lanka have also enjoyed success.
Bangladesh Women have dominated the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, winning three titles in 2018, 2019, and 2022. Their consistent performances, strong batting, and effective bowling have established them as the most successful team in qualifier history.
Related Reads:
Conclusion – All Ten Teams Have Confirmed 15-Member Squads For The 2026 Women’s T20 Qualifier
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026 will begin on 18 January 2026 in Kathmandu, Nepal, marking the seventh edition of the tournament. It serves as the final qualification pathway to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales. Ten teams will compete for four World Cup spots, making every match crucial. All participating teams have announced their 15-member squads, featuring a blend of experience and youth. High-stakes contests, rising stars, and World Cup ambitions promise an exciting and fiercely competitive global event.
FAQs
The tournament will begin on 18 January 2026 and run until 1 February 2026.
The organizers will host the entire tournament in Kathmandu, Nepal, at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, Kirtipur, and the Upper Mulpani Cricket Ground.
A total of 10 teams are competing in the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2026.
The top four teams from the Super Six stage will qualify for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
The event features a group stage followed by a Super Six phase, with teams playing cross-group matches.
Yes, all 10 teams have confirmed 15-member squads for the tournament.
