Zimbabwe and Namibia Secure Spots in ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier
Zimbabwe and Namibia have successfully earned places in the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, set to take place in early 2024 in Nepal. This event is crucial as it provides an opportunity for ten teams to vie for four spots in the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup scheduled for June and July in England.
A Milestone Achievement
Both countries are poised to make history, as neither Zimbabwe nor Namibia has previously qualified for a Women’s World Cup in any format. This accomplishment marks a significant chapter for both cricketing nations.
Teams Participating
Zimbabwe and Namibia join an impressive lineup of teams that have already qualified for the Global Qualifier, including:
- Bangladesh
- Ireland
- Thailand
- Nepal
- United States
Three additional teams will emerge from ongoing regional tournaments—two from Europe and one from the East Asia-Pacific region.
Path to Qualification
Zimbabwe secured its spot by defeating Uganda in the first semi-final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Region Division One Qualifier held in Windhoek on Thursday. Namibia followed suit by overcoming Tanzania in the second semi-final, setting the stage for an exciting final featuring both Southern African teams on September 6.
Global Qualifier Format and Schedule
The global qualifying tournament will consist of ten teams divided into two groups of five. The top six teams will advance to the Super Six stage, leading to the final rounds. Matches are scheduled to occur from January 12 to February 2, 2024, at the Lower Mulpani Cricket Stadium and Upper Mulpani Cricket Stadium in Kathmandu.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The upcoming 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup will expand from 10 to 12 teams for the first time. Defending champions New Zealand will aim to retain their title, following their victory against South Africa in the previous year’s final held in Dubai.
The tournament will follow a knockout and group-stage format. The final matches will take place after the group stages, with semi-finals leading to the showdown at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Event Details
The 10th edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will be held in England, running from June to July 5, 2026. The tournament will kick off with the host nation, England, facing Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on June 12. A total of 33 matches will be hosted across seven iconic English venues:
- Edgbaston
- The Oval
- Old Trafford
- Headingley
- Hampshire Bowl
- Bristol County Ground
- Lords
