Final 12 Confirmed: Ireland and Scotland Secure Berths for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026

The qualification path concluded during the Super Six stage of the Global Qualifier, where Ireland and Scotland delivered clinical performances to stave off their rivals. Ireland secured their return to the world stage with a commanding 62-run victory over Thailand, while Scotland quelled a spirited challenge from the USA to win by 41 runs.

The Road to England: Qualifier Dominance

The Global Qualifier in Nepal served as the final gateway for emerging nations to join the world's elite. While the final spots were decided on the last day, Bangladesh and the Netherlands had already secured their positions earlier in the tournament.

• Bangladesh: Finished the Super Six stage as undisputed leaders, maintaining a perfect record with seven wins from seven matches.

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• The Netherlands: Secured a historic qualification, marking the first time the Dutch women’s side will compete in a T20 World Cup.

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• Ireland: Claimed the second spot in the standings, rebounding after missing the 2024 edition.

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• Scotland: Finished third, ensuring back-to-back World Cup appearances after their debut in 2024.

Tournament Structure and Elite Field

The 2026 edition, which begins on June 12, will be the largest in the tournament's history, featuring an expanded format of 12 teams. The four qualifiers join the eight nations that earned automatic entry through their 2024 performances and ICC rankings.

The tournament is scheduled to open at Edgbaston, Birmingham, with hosts England facing off against Sri Lanka. The month-long festival of cricket will conclude with a grand final at Lord’s on July 5, 2026.

Significance of the 2026 Edition

This World Cup represents a milestone for the women’s game, moving to a 12-team format to reflect the sport's increasing global parity. With New Zealand entering as defending champions and Australia seeking to reclaim their habitual dominance, the inclusion of rising powers like Bangladesh—who dominated the qualifiers—promises a highly unpredictable tournament.

For Associate nations like the Netherlands and Scotland, the tournament offers a vital platform to bridge the gap with full-member nations under the bright lights of iconic venues like Old Trafford, Headingley, and The Oval.