The road to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 is heating up as six teams prepare to battle it out in Pakistan from April 9 to April 19 for the last two remaining spots.
With a golden opportunity to compete in the prestigious tournament later this year in India, the stakes could not be higher.
A Tournament Filled With High Stakes
The two successful teams from the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers will join Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and hosts India in the tournament.
The tournament will take place in Pakistan, marking a historic moment as the nation hosts a significant women’s cricket event.
- Pakistan (host nation)
- West Indies
- Bangladesh
- Ireland
- Scotland
- Thailand
These teams will compete in a round-robin format, where each team plays every other team once. At the end of the 15 matches, the top two teams will advance to the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.
The Qualification Journey
Bangladesh, West Indies, Pakistan, and Ireland finished in the bottom four of the ICC Women’s Championship (2022-2025), meaning they now have to fight for their World Cup berth through the Qualifiers.
This means that some of the best women’s cricket teams, including previous World Cup participants, will have to prove their worth yet again to secure a place in India 2025.
Two prestigious venues in Lahore, Pakistan, have been chosen to host this significant tournament.
Gaddafi Stadium: One of Pakistan’s most iconic cricket venues, having recently hosted high-profile matches in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy. The stadium will provide an electrifying atmosphere for the players.
Tournament Format and Key Fixtures
The round-robin format ensures that every match is crucial. A win earns a team two points, and at the end of the competition, the top two teams will advance to the main tournament.
- April 9: Pakistan vs Ireland (Gaddafi Stadium) and West Indies vs Scotland (LCCA)
- April 19: Pakistan vs Bangladesh (LCCA) and West Indies vs Thailand (Gaddafi Stadium)
- April 14: Pakistan vs West Indies (Gaddafi Stadium) - A potential decider between two formidable teams.
- April 17: Bangladesh vs West Indies (LCCA) - A match with major qualification implications.
- April 18: Ireland vs Scotland (Gaddafi Stadium) - A battle of European teams aiming to make history.
Squads and Star Players to Watch
Each team comes with its set of talented cricketers who could make a difference in this high-pressure tournament.
Bangladesh Squad
Led by Nigar Sultana Joty, the squad includes key players such as Nahida Akter, Sobhana Mostary, and Marufa Akter. Their experience and consistency will be crucial.
Ireland Squad
With Gaby Lewis and Laura Delany at the helm, Ireland boasts a well-balanced squad, including young stars like Amy Hunter and Leah Paul.
Pakistan Squad
Fatima Sana leads a strong squad featuring Sidra Amin, Omaima Sohail, and Diana Baig. As hosts, they will look to capitalize on home advantage.
Scotland Squad
Scotland's hopes rest on Kathryn Bryce and Sarah Bryce, while experienced bowlers like Abtaha Maqsood will be vital for their campaign.
Thailand Squad
Thailand is an emerging force in women’s cricket, with Naruemol Chaiwai and Nannapat Khoncharoenkai leading the charge.
West Indies Squad
The West Indies, led by Hayley Matthews, includes power players such as Stafanie Taylor and Chinelle Henry who can turn games around.
