ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier: What You Need to Know

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier is the gateway for emerging cricket nations to earn a spot in the main event. It brings together teams from Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas, all battling for the limited berths that lead to the global tournament. If you’re new to women’s cricket or just want a quick guide, this page breaks down the essentials – schedule, squads, viewing options and why the qualifier matters.

Who’s playing and when?

The qualifier features ten teams divided into two groups. Group A includes Bangladesh, Ireland, Papua New Guinea, Uganda, and the United Arab Emirates. Group B has India, Scotland, Kenya, Malaysia and Thailand. Matches kick off on 30 September and run through 9 October, with each side playing three group games before the top two from each pool move to the semi‑finals.

All games are scheduled in the host city’s local time, which is GMT+5:30. The semi‑finals take place on 8 October, followed by the final on 9 October. The winner and runner‑up automatically qualify for the Women's T20 World Cup, while the third‑placed team may get a chance through a play‑off, depending on ICC’s allocation for that cycle.

How to watch and why it matters

Live streams are available on the ICC’s official platform and on regional broadcasters like Sky Sports (UK), Star Sports (India) and SuperSport (Africa). If you prefer highlights, the ICC’s YouTube channel uploads match clips within a few hours. Social media accounts of the teams also share live score updates, so you can keep tabs even without a TV.

The qualifier isn’t just about filling spots; it’s a showcase for talent from developing cricket nations. Players like Thailand’s Naruemol Chaiwai and Uganda’s Rita Musamali have used this stage to attract franchise contracts in leagues such as the Women’s T20 Challenge. Strong performances also boost funding for women’s cricket programs back home, helping the sport grow at the grassroots level.For fans, the qualifier offers unpredictable cricket – expect close finishes, rain‑affected games and a few surprise upsets. It’s a chance to see future stars before they hit the big stage. Keep an eye on the top‑order batters from Bangladesh and the spin attack of Kenya; both have already caused trouble for opponents in the group phase.

If you’re planning to follow the action, set reminders for the semi‑finals on 8 October. That’s when the two teams that win their groups face the runners‑up, and the stakes are highest. The final on 9 October decides the two qualifiers, and the tension is palpable – every run, wicket and catch can secure a World Cup ticket.

In short, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifier is a compact, high‑energy tournament that decides who joins the world’s elite. With accessible streaming, clear schedules and plenty of drama, it’s a must‑watch for any cricket fan. Bookmark this page, check the match times, and enjoy the ride as teams chase their dream of playing on cricket’s biggest stage.