England to Host ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026

LONDON: English cricketers Sophia Dunkley and Sophie Ecclestone are eager to emulate their team’s memorable 2017 World Cup victory. They are looking forward to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held on their home ground.

The forthcoming competition in England marks the first time the nation has hosted a major international women’s cricket event since the remarkable 2017 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.

In the 2017 final, England defeated India by nine runs at a full Lord’s, securing a place in cricket history.

A record 12 teams will participate in the 2026 tournament, the most ever for the event, with the final match scheduled to take place at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

At the launch, Dunkley and Ecclestone highlighted the importance of performing in front of a home crowd and inspiring future cricketers. They called the event a prime chance to make new achievements.

Sophia Dunkley, who was in the audience for the 2017 final, considered it a key moment in her career.

Dunkley stated, “Having watched 2017, there is no greater motivation than wanting to do it myself and encourage young individuals to engage in cricket. It would be exceptionally meaningful and something I have dreamed of since childhood.”

She remembered exactly where she sat, recalling the lively atmosphere and the significance of the occasion.

She mentioned, “In 2017, I was seated in the stand, I believe on the right side, and it was a wonderful occasion.”

Dunkley, who debuted for England in 2018, mentioned that the experience motivated her to advance.

She added, “I found it incredibly inspiring as a player, coming through the ranks and aspiring to be part of that team.”

“Witnessing that event and then joining the England team later that year was truly incredible.

Dunkley commented, “So, having a home World Cup, having experienced it from the crowd, and having such a competition to anticipate next year is genuinely remarkable.”

Sophie Ecclestone, currently the top-ranked bowler in both white-ball formats, also attended the 2017 final as an emerging talent.

Ecclestone shared, “My memories include watching the game with Ellie Threlkeld. I had just completed my schooling.”

She concluded, “I feel as though I have participated in World Cups globally, and it will be thrilling to compete at home, here at Lord’s, and at Old Trafford. I am very excited about it.”