In a major breakthrough for South Asian cricket, Nepal has earned the honor of hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier — a proud and defining moment in the country’s cricketing rise. From January 12 to February 2, 2026, Kathmandu will transform into the heart of international women’s cricket, as ten teams from around the globe compete for a ticket to the world stage.
Two stadiums in the scenic Mulpani area — Lower Mulpani Cricket Ground and Upper Mulpani Cricket Ground — have been picked as the venues. Over the years, both stadiums have quietly transformed — not just in infrastructure, but in spirit. Now, they’re more than ready to host some of the world’s best women cricketers. But for Nepal, this isn’t just about putting on a tournament. It’s about telling the world: we belong here. In Nepal, cricket isn’t just played — it’s lived. From backstreet games to buzzing local grounds, the love for the sport pulses through everyday life. Hosting the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier isn’t just about logistics or prestige — it’s a chance for Nepal to show the world just how vibrant and passionate its cricketing spirit really is.
Why This Event Is a Big Deal
Cricket’s always had a strong following in Nepal, but this qualifier is a whole new ballgame. It’s not just another event — it’s a big moment that puts Nepal on the international map. When the ICC hands you hosting duties, it’s a clear sign of confidence — in your stadiums, your organization, and your people. But beyond the logistics, this is a massive win for women’s cricket. It brings attention, energy, and investment to a space that’s long deserved more of all three — especially in this part of the world.
This will be the final qualification tournament before the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in England and Wales in June–July. For many of the participating nations, this is their last shot to make it to cricket’s biggest T20 stage.
What We Know So Far
The full match schedule will be announced closer to the date, but five out of ten teams have already confirmed their places:
- Bangladesh
- Ireland
- Thailand
- Nepal (host nation)
- USA
Bangladesh and Ireland made it into the Qualifier due to their participation in the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup. Thailand and Nepal sealed their spots through the Asia regional qualifier, while the United States qualified via the Americas pathway.
The remaining five slots will be filled through other regional qualification tournaments:
- Two teams from Africa
- Two teams from Europe
- One team from East Asia-Pacific
Once the teams are locked in, they’ll be split into two groups of five. From there, it’s all about rising to the occasion — the top three from each group will move on to the Super Six stage, where the real battle for World Cup spots begins. From there, it gets even tighter — only the top four will punch their ticket to the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup.
What’s at Stake?
With the 2026 edition set to feature 12 teams — two more than in 2024 — the stakes have never been higher. It’s wide open, and for many of the smaller cricketing nations, this could be the breakthrough moment they’ve been working toward. For Nepal, playing at home means more than just crowd energy — it’s about comfort, confidence, and the chance to turn home turf into a proving ground.
But they won’t have it easy. Sides like Thailand and the USA have been climbing fast, backed by serious investment and solid recent performances.
Step back for a moment, and you’ll see this tournament is about more than just who qualifies. It’s part of a larger shift — women’s cricket breaking out of its usual circles and reaching new corners of the world. It’s a stage where developing teams can test themselves against stronger sides, learn fast, and inspire the next wave of fans along the way.
Nepal’s Readiness: More Than Just Hosting
Nepal’s preparation for the tournament began months in advance. The Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) has worked closely with the International Cricket Council (ICC) to meet venue and broadcast standards. Training facilities have been upgraded. Grounds have been relaid. And crowd management strategies are being put in place to ensure safety and smooth logistics.
Importantly, the local enthusiasm is high. The success of previous international events like the Men’s Cricket League and various bilateral series has already shown that Nepali fans turn up in big numbers — rain or shine.
With live global broadcast and digital coverage planned, the event is also expected to bring a new wave of attention to Nepal’s cricket scene.
Women’s Cricket on the Rise
The growth of women’s cricket in the last five years has been phenomenal. From record attendances at the 2020 T20 World Cup final to the launch of leagues like WPL (Women’s Premier League), the game has made a serious impact — both in visibility and sponsorship.
This Qualifier is part of a bigger shift happening in women’s cricket. More countries are stepping up — investing in grassroots programs, giving young players more opportunities, and sending squads overseas to gain valuable experience. For Nepal, hosting this event is more than just a milestone. It reflects the ICC’s commitment to growing the women’s game in new corners of the world, and it’s a chance for emerging boards to show just how capable they really are.
Spotlight on Teams to Watch
- Nepal: With home advantage, Nepal will aim to make history. The women’s team has steadily improved and will be keen to use local conditions to their benefit.
- Thailand: They’ve been one of the standout stories in associate cricket. Technically sharp and well-drilled, they’ve become a consistent force in qualifiers.
- USA: Backed by a growing domestic setup and a diverse talent pool, the Americans are keen to establish themselves on the world stage.
- Bangladesh and Ireland: Among the more seasoned sides, both will be aiming not just to qualify, but to dominate.
What It Means for South Asia
South Asia is often considered the heartbeat of cricket — but women’s cricket in the region has lagged behind. Nepal stepping in as host could mark a real turning point. If they pull this off, it won’t just boost their cricketing reputation — it could open the door for more ICC events across the region, from Bhutan to the Maldives. Just as importantly, it gives young Nepali girls a reason to dream bigger — a clear path they can see and chase. Watching international women compete at home could inspire the next wave of stars.
A Chance for Fans to Witness History
With ten teams competing across several weeks, the 2026 Qualifier in Kathmandu is shaping up to be a cricketing spectacle full of unexpected twists. There’s bound to be drama, a few giant-killing moments, and maybe even a new fan-favorite or two. If you’re in Kathmandu during the tournament, you’re in for more than just a series of matches — you’re witnessing a turning point in women’s cricket. This isn’t about stats or scorecards. It’s about underdogs stepping up, nerves playing out under pressure, and teams writing their own stories on the field. The kind of moments that don’t just decide games, but stay with fans for years.
Final Thoughts
With January 2026 fast approaching, anticipation is building. All eyes are now on Nepal — not just to see how well they host, but to witness the stories that unfold. Will a dark horse rise and earn a surprise ticket to the World Cup? Can Nepal deliver a tournament that leaves a lasting impression, both on the field and across the region? One thing’s certain: women’s cricket is about to take center stage in the Himalayas.
Time will tell. But for now, cricket fans — especially those in Nepal — have a lot to be excited about.
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