Dubai: Delayed by Covid, fast-tracked to the UAE, the 2023 Women’s T20 World Cup, originally slated for last year in South Africa, was postponed due to the pandemic, creating a short gap between editions. The real scramble came when the tournament had to find a new home.
Why not Bangladesh?
Bangladesh was set to host, but violent anti-government protests led to multiple nations, including Australia and India, issuing travel advisories. The ICC had to act fast, with the UAE emerging as the backup venue. Zimbabwe made a late offer, but the ICC chose the UAE, partnering with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for the event.
Scorching temperatures:
Will it affect play? The UAE will be hot, with average daytime temperatures in the mid-30s, but cricket has been played here in similar conditions during the T20 Asia Cup 2022 and the T20 World Cup 2021. Seven double-header days are scheduled, with games at 2 pm and 6 pm, which will test players’ stamina.
Why UAE?
India declined hosting due to next year’s Women’s World Cup, while Sri Lanka was ruled out due to monsoons. The UAE became the best option despite the heat. Matches will be played in Dubai and Sharjah.
Teams and qualification
Will UAE play? No, the UAE doesn’t get automatic entry, as Bangladesh qualified before the relocation. Six teams; Australia, South Africa, India, England, West Indies, and New Zealand, qualified from the last World Cup, while Pakistan qualified based on ICC rankings. Scotland and Sri Lanka secured the final spots via the qualifiers.
How many teams?
Ten teams will compete, with Scotland replacing Ireland from last year. This marks Scotland’s first appearance at a global women’s event.
Tournament format and key dates
How does it work? The teams are split into two groups of five for a round-robin format. The top two from each group will move to the semi-finals, with India’s potential semi-final set for Dubai on October 17. The final will be held in Dubai on October 20, with reserve days for all knockout matches.
Facts
- First Women's T20 World Cup at a neutral venue.
- Dubai has never hosted a women's T20I involving any of these teams.
- First time in 25 years an Indian team (men or women) will play in Sharjah.
- Equal prize money for men’s and women’s tournaments: USD 2.34 million for the winners, a 134% increase from 2023.
Can anyone challenge Australia?
Australia’s Dominance Australia remains the team to beat, but India and England are strong challengers. India’s recent Test win and T20I victory against Australia, alongside their preparation with a sports psychologist, show they mean business.
England enters in strong form after dominating New Zealand and Pakistan, but Sri Lanka, fresh off their Asia Cup win, could upset the balance.
Must-watch matches
- Pakistan vs Sri Lanka (October 3): A fierce rivalry born from the Women’s Asia Cup.
- Sri Lanka vs Australia (October 5): Watch for a potential upset on a slow Sharjah pitch.
- India vs Pakistan (October 6): Always a crowd-puller, even if not as intense as the men's rivalry.
- England vs South Africa (October 7): A rematch of last year’s semi-final.
- Australia vs New Zealand (October 8) and India vs Australia (October 13)
With rising teams and intense rivalries, this tournament promises drama. Will Australia maintain their dominance, or is an upset brewing? All eyes are on the UAE.