Lahore, April 9, 2025 – The road to the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 officially began today as the Women's ODI World Cup Qualifier commenced in Lahore, Pakistan. With six competitive teams aiming to secure one of the two remaining spots in the prestigious global tournament later this year in India, the event promises high-octane action and a platform to spotlight rising talents in women’s cricket.

Teams in Contention

The six participating teams—Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, and Thailand—will battle it out from April 9 to April 19. The matches are being held at two historic venues in Lahore: Gaddafi Stadium and Lahore City Cricket Association Ground (LCCA).

These teams were selected based on their rankings and regional qualification criteria. While Pakistan and West Indies enter as favorites with solid ODI pedigrees, Bangladesh, Ireland, and Thailand are determined to disrupt the expected order. Scotland, often an underdog, has also shown recent improvement in both batting and bowling depth.

Opening Fixtures and Schedule

The tournament kicked off today with Pakistan facing Ireland at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, and West Indies locking horns with Scotland at the LCCA Ground. The round-robin stage will continue through the next ten days, with each team playing five matches. The top two teams on the points table at the end of the round-robin phase will earn their ticket to the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 in India.

Tournament Format

The qualifier features a single round-robin format, ensuring each team plays the other five once. Points are awarded in the standard ODI format: 2 points for a win, 1 for a tie or no-result, and 0 for a loss. Net Run Rate (NRR) will act as the tiebreaker in case of teams finishing with equal points.

Why Lahore?

This is a significant moment for Pakistan cricket, as hosting an international women’s event under the ICC umbrella reaffirms its growing capability and trust within the global cricketing community. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has put in considerable effort to prepare world-class facilities and ensure security and infrastructure meet global standards.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said, “We are proud to host this prestigious ICC event and showcase the passion for women’s cricket in Pakistan. This is not just a qualifier—it’s a celebration of the progress women’s cricket has made globally.”

Players to Watch

Each team arrives with match-winners and exciting prospects. Key players expected to make an impact include:

  • Fatima Sana (Pakistan) – The pacer has become a mainstay for Pakistan and will lead the bowling attack at home.

  • Hayley Matthews (West Indies) – Arguably the tournament’s top all-rounder, Matthews' experience could carry her team through.

  • Nigar Sultana (Bangladesh) – A consistent batter and captain, Sultana is pivotal to her side’s qualification hopes.

  • Laura Delany (Ireland) – Ireland’s captain brings both leadership and stability in the middle order.

  • Nattaya Boochatham (Thailand) – Known for her sharp spin bowling, Boochatham could thrive on spin-friendly surfaces in Lahore.

  • Kathryn Bryce (Scotland) – A true all-rounder, Bryce is Scotland’s trump card.

Significance for Women’s Cricket

This qualifier is more than just a gateway to the World Cup. It represents the growing professionalism and investment in women’s cricket. With matches being broadcast globally and highlights featured across digital platforms, the event gives much-needed visibility to developing nations and players who often go unnoticed.

Moreover, the event is part of the ICC’s commitment to globalize the women’s game, offering equal opportunities to associate and full-member nations. By holding this event in Pakistan, it also sets a precedent for hosting major international women’s events in non-traditional locations.

Security and Logistics

The PCB and ICC have collaborated with the local government to ensure tight security protocols, player accommodations, transportation, and media arrangements. Foreign players have praised the arrangements, with many expressing appreciation for the hospitality and support provided.

Path to the 2025 ODI World Cup

The two qualifying teams will join six already-qualified sides: India (host), Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. The final tournament is scheduled for October-November 2025, with India preparing to host its first women’s ODI World Cup since 2013.

What’s Next?

With nearly every match potentially being a decider, fans can expect intense contests and possibly a few upsets. The final round of matches on April 18 is expected to be crucial, with qualification likely going down to the wire.