ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 Schedule Announced

ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025 Schedule Announced: Tournament Set for April 9–19 in Lahore

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially released the schedule for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2025, a crucial tournament that will decide the final two spots in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup to be held later this year. The qualifier will be hosted by Pakistan from April 9 to April 19, 2025, and all matches will take place in Lahore, marking a historic moment for women’s cricket in the region.

This six-team tournament is expected to bring high-octane action, emerging talents, and fierce competition as teams battle for a place on the world stage.

Participating Teams and Qualification Stakes

The six participating teams in the Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025 are:

• Sri Lanka

• Ireland

• Thailand

• Netherlands

• Zimbabwe

• United States of America (USA)

These teams have earned their place in the qualifier based on their performances in regional qualifiers, global rankings, and ICC invitations. Only two teams from this tournament will advance to the main Women’s World Cup, joining teams that have already qualified through the ICC Women’s Championship 2022–25, including powerhouses like Australia, England, India, South Africa, New Zealand, and host nation Pakistan.

Match Venues and Facilities

All matches will be held at Gaddafi Stadium and the National Cricket Academy Ground, both in Lahore. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assured top-tier facilities and security for players and staff, emphasizing the importance of this event in promoting women’s cricket both in Pakistan and globally.

According to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi:

“We are honored to host this prestigious tournament. It reflects the ICC’s confidence in our ability to organize international events and supports the growth of women’s cricket in Pakistan.”

Full Schedule of the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier 2025

Below is the complete match schedule for the tournament:

Note: The top four teams from the round-robin stage will qualify for the semi-finals.

Broadcast and Live Streaming

The ICC has confirmed that the tournament will be televised globally, with live streaming available on ICC.tv and select regional broadcasters. Cricket fans around the world will be able to watch the entire event live, showcasing the rising standard of women’s cricket and providing greater exposure to lesser-known teams.

Importance of the Qualifier for Global Women’s Cricket

The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier not only determines tournament participation but also plays a critical role in:

• Promoting associate and emerging nations like Thailand and USA.

• Boosting infrastructure investment in host nations.

• Creating global visibility for female cricketers outside the major cricketing countries.

• Strengthening gender equality efforts through sport.

ICC’s Head of Global Development, Will Glenwright, said:

“This qualifier serves as a stepping stone for global growth in the women’s game. It’s about more than just two spots — it’s about giving nations a global platform to grow their programs.”

Team Previews: Ones to Watch

Sri Lanka – Led by experienced all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu, Sri Lanka is seen as a favorite to top the group. Their experience in international cricket and recent form makes them a tough competitor.

Thailand – One of the most improved women’s teams in recent years. Their discipline and smart bowling attack have caused several upsets on the global stage, making them dark horses in this tournament.

USA – A relatively new side in world cricket but with growing domestic support and talent pools. Their participation brings attention to cricket development in North America.

Pakistan: A Historic Host

This is the first time Pakistan is hosting an ICC Women’s global event, which represents a monumental achievement for the country’s cricket board and signals increased inclusivity and investment in the women’s game.

PCB’s Women’s Cricket Head, Tania Malik, commented:

“Hosting the World Cup Qualifier in Lahore is not just an honor, it’s a signal to young girls across Pakistan that their cricket dreams matter.”

Security, logistics, and hospitality arrangements have all been certified by ICC officials in their final site inspection, and visiting teams are expected to arrive in Pakistan by April 5 for pre-tournament training and acclimatization.

Fans and Ticketing Information

Entry to all matches will be free for fans, with designated sections for school groups and families to encourage community participation and build grassroots support. Special outreach programs will also be conducted during the tournament in collaboration with local schools and NGOs promoting gender equality in sports.