Cricket fans everywhere are preparing for the biggest women’s cricket event of 2025.
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 schedule has been released, and it shows us exactly why this tournament will be unforgettable.
The marquee 50-over women’s tournament kicks off on September 30, with five cities across Sri Lanka and India playing host to this amazing cricket celebration.
The International Cricket Council has unveiled the complete schedule for the 2025 edition of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, creating massive excitement among fans worldwide.
This tournament represents the perfect opportunity for cricket lovers to witness world-class competition while experiencing the incredible cricket cultures of India and Sri Lanka.
What makes this tournament extra special is how it brings together the perfect combination of cricket excellence and fan experience.
Hosts India will take on Sri Lanka in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 opener on September 30, 2025, in Bengaluru. This opening match promises to set the tone for over a month of thrilling cricket action.
The schedule for the eight-team tournament was confirmed by the ICC on Monday, with the event to run in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2.
Meanwhile, reigning champions Australia will open their title defence against Trans-Tasman rivals and defending T20 World Cup champions, New Zealand, in Indore on October 1.
The Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 will be played in India later this year, marking the return of this prestigious tournament to the cricket-mad subcontinent.
ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Schedule & Fixtures
The upcoming edition will be the 13th since the tournament’s inception in 1973, representing over five decades of women’s cricket growth and development.
What Makes This Tournament Special for Fans
This tournament offers cricket fans a unique experience that combines world-class sport with incredible hospitality across two cricket-loving nations.
Fan Experience Highlights:
| Experience Element | What Fans Can Expect |
|---|---|
| Match Quality | The world’s best 8 teams are competing |
| Tournament Duration | 34 days of cricket action |
| Venue Variety | 5 different cities and stadiums |
| Cultural Experience | Cricket traditions in India and Sri Lanka |
| Accessibility | Multiple viewing options worldwide |
| Historic Significance | 13th edition since 1973 |
A total of five cities across the two countries will host matches, with Bengaluru, Vizag, Indore, Guwahati, and Colombo all scheduled for fixtures.
Each city offers its unique cricket atmosphere and local culture, making this tournament a true celebration of cricket diversity.
The eight-team tournament will be played with teams facing the rest of the competition in a single round-robin, with the top four sides progressing to the semi-finals.
This format ensures every match matters and gives fans maximum cricket entertainment value.
Tournament Structure: What Fans Need to Know
Understanding the tournament structure helps fans plan their viewing and appreciate how the competition unfolds over 34 exciting days.
Complete Tournament Timeline:
| Phase | Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Warm-up Matches | September 24-27 | Teams prepare and adjust |
| Round-Robin Stage | September 30 – October 28 | 28 matches, every team plays every other team |
| Semi-Finals | October 29-30 | Top 4 teams compete |
| Grand Final | November 2 | Championship decided |
Teams will also contest in two warm-up matches each, starting on September 24. These preparation matches give fans early glimpses of their favorite teams while players adjust to local conditions and finalize their strategies.
One semi-final will be held in Bengaluru, with the other to be played in either Colombo or Guwahati. The Final is scheduled for November 2 in Bengaluru or Colombo, promising a spectacular conclusion to this cricket festival.
The Eight Teams: Stories Worth Following
Each of the eight qualified teams brings compelling storylines that make this tournament fascinating for cricket fans around the world.
Championship Favorites:
| Team | Key Storyline | What to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Defending champions seeking 8th title | Experience vs new challengers |
| England | 2022 runners-up want redemption | Balanced team with championship hunger |
| India | Hosts with a passionate crowd support | Home advantage in familiar conditions |
| New Zealand | T20 champions bringing winning form | Trans-Tasman rivalry with Australia |
Rising Contenders:
| Team | Journey to Tournament | Fan Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| South Africa | Consistent championship performers | Athletic cricket and fighting spirit |
| Sri Lanka | Co-hosts with local knowledge | Passionate home support |
| Pakistan | Qualified through the April tournament | Unpredictable style and upset potential |
| Bangladesh | Earned spot via qualifier success | Emerging cricket nation story |
Defending champions Australia, who clinched their seventh title in 2022, went on to top the ICC Women’s Championship Standings, with the top six teams of the competition qualifying automatically for the World Cup.
England, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sri Lanka also punched their ticket via the Women’s Championship alongside hosts India.
The final two spots were decided by the Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier earlier in the year, where Pakistan and Bangladesh booked their passage by finishing in the top two at the Qualifier back in April.
Venues and Cities: A Cricket Fan’s Dream Tour
The five host cities offer cricket fans incredible diversity in venues, local culture, and cricket atmosphere.
Your Complete Venue Guide:
| City | Stadium | What Makes It Special |
|---|---|---|
| Bengaluru | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | Tournament opener, tech city atmosphere |
| Indore | Holkar Cricket Stadium | Fast-scoring venue, Australia vs New Zealand |
| Visakhapatnam | ACA-VDCA Stadium | Coastal beauty, batting paradise |
| Guwahati | Barsapara Cricket Stadium | Northeast culture, passionate fans |
| Colombo | R. Premadasa Stadium | Historic venue, spin bowling conditions |
Each venue brings different challenges for teams and unique experiences for fans. Bengaluru hosts the tournament opener and potentially the final, making it the centerpiece of this cricket celebration. The city’s modern infrastructure and cricket-crazy population create perfect conditions for memorable matches.
Indore will witness the mouth-watering clash between defending champions Australia and T20 champions New Zealand on October 1, promising one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches right from the early days.
Key Matches and Storylines to Follow
The tournament schedule includes several must-watch matches that promise exceptional cricket drama and entertainment.
Opening Week Spectacles:
The tournament begins with hosts India facing Sri Lanka on September 30 in Bengaluru. This match combines opening ceremony excitement with competitive cricket as both co-host nations start their championship campaigns.
October 1 brings the first major rivalry clash when Australia faces New Zealand in Indore. This Trans-Tasman battle features the defending World Cup champions against the current T20 World Cup champions, creating incredible anticipation.
Warm-up Match Highlights:
Hosts India will be facing the runners-up from the 2022 edition of the tournament, England, in Bengaluru on September 24, followed by a clash against South Africa three days later in Guwahati. These warm-up encounters give fans early insights into team form and preparation levels.
Championship Race Dynamics:
The round-robin format means every match carries significant weight for semi-final qualification. Teams cannot afford early losses, creating pressure and excitement from the tournament’s first week.
Late-tournament matches often decide semi-final spots, guaranteeing thrilling cricket as teams fight for knockout stage advancement.
Player Watch and Squad Updates
The squad of any team has not been announced yet, creating anticipation among fans and media as selection decisions approach.
What to Expect from Squad Announcements:
Squad selections typically happen 4-6 weeks before major tournaments, allowing teams to assess current player form, fitness levels, and tactical requirements. Each team can name 15 players, including specialists and reserves.
Key Player Categories for Fan Interest:
Successful World Cup teams feature explosive opening batters who set match tempo, reliable middle-order players who handle pressure situations, effective bowlers who take crucial wickets, and exceptional fielders who create match-winning moments.
Captaincy becomes crucial during tournament pressure, with experienced leaders often making decisive tactical contributions that determine match outcomes.
How Fans Can Follow the Tournament?
The tournament will reach cricket fans worldwide through comprehensive broadcasting and digital coverage arrangements.
Viewing Options for Global Fans:
Television networks, streaming platforms, and digital services will provide extensive coverage, ensuring no fan misses the action. The ICC coordinates with international broadcasters to maximize global accessibility.
Enhanced Fan Experience:
Modern coverage includes live match broadcasts, expert analysis, behind-the-scenes content, player interviews, and statistical insights that enhance fan understanding and enjoyment.
Cultural and Economic Impact
This tournament creates a significant positive impact for both host nations through tourism, cultural exchange, and economic benefits.
Tourism and Local Benefits:
International fans visiting India and Sri Lanka contribute to hotels, restaurants, transportation, and local attractions, creating lasting economic benefits for host communities.
Cultural Exchange Opportunities:
The tournament promotes friendship between nations through shared cricket experiences, cultural interactions, and international cooperation in sport.
Infrastructure Development:
Tournament requirements drive improvements to stadium facilities, transportation networks, and accommodation options that benefit local communities long after cricket action concludes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the tournament start and end?
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 runs from September 30 to November 2, 2025, with warm-up matches starting September 24.
- Which cities will host matches?
Five cities host tournament matches: Bengaluru, Indore, Visakhapatnam, and Guwahati in India, plus Colombo in Sri Lanka.
- How many teams are participating?
Eight teams qualified for the tournament: Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
- Who are the defending champions?
Australia are defending champions, having won their seventh title by defeating England in the 2022 final.
- What’s the tournament format?
Teams play in a round-robin format, then the top 4 advance to the semi-finals and the championship final.
- How did teams qualify?
Six teams qualified through the ICC Women’s Championship, India qualified as hosts, and Pakistan and Bangladesh earned spots through April’s qualifier tournament.
- When will squads be announced?
Teams typically announce squads 4-6 weeks before tournaments, so expect announcements in late August or early September 2025.
- Are there preparation matches?
Yes, teams play two warm-up matches each, starting September 24, 2025.
What does This Tournament mean for Women’s Cricket?
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 represents a crucial milestone in women’s cricket development and global recognition.
Growth and Development Impact:
This tournament showcases over 50 years of women’s cricket evolution since the first edition in 1973. Each tournament raises playing standards, increases global participation, and attracts new fans to the sport.
Inspiration for Future Generations:
Success of this tournament influences young girls worldwide to pursue cricket, demonstrating that women’s sports deserve equal recognition and support.
Professional Standards:
The tournament’s high production values, comprehensive coverage, and competitive quality establish new benchmarks for women’s cricket presentation and professionalism.
Planning Your Tournament Experience
Whether attending live matches or following from home, fans can maximize their tournament experience through proper planning and understanding.
For Live Match Attendance:
Ticket information will be available through official ICC channels and authorized vendors. Early planning helps secure seats for popular matches and venues.
For Global Viewers:
Check local broadcasting arrangements and streaming options to ensure access throughout the tournament duration.
Social Media and Digital Engagement:
Follow official tournament accounts and team social media for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive fan experiences.
Conclusion:
The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 promises to be an extraordinary celebration of women’s cricket excellence, bringing together eight exceptional teams for over a month of world-class competition.
From September 30 to November 2, cricket fans worldwide will witness the sport’s finest athletes competing for the ultimate prize across five magnificent venues in India and Sri Lanka.
This tournament represents much more than just cricket matches. It celebrates over 50 years of women’s cricket development while inspiring future generations of players and fans.
The combination of defending champions Australia, experienced contenders like England and India, and emerging nations Pakistan and Bangladesh creates perfect conditions for memorable performances and surprising results.
The carefully planned schedule across five diverse cities ensures optimal playing conditions while providing fans incredible variety in venues and local cultures.
From the tournament opener between India and Sri Lanka in Bengaluru to the championship final on November 2, every match carries significance in determining the new world champions.
Whether you support the consistency of Australia, the determination of England, the home advantage of India and Sri Lanka, or the fighting spirit of the qualifier teams, this tournament guarantees exceptional cricket entertainment that will be remembered for years to come. The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 truly represents the pinnacle of women’s cricket achievement and celebration.
