The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled a revamped Future Tours Programme (FTP) for women’s cricket, introducing dedicated windows for major competitions and expanding the ICC Women’s ODI Championship.
Women’s Premier League (WPL) Window
The Women’s Premier League (WPL), India’s premier women’s franchise competition, will find a new home in the January-February window from 2026 onwards. This shift has prompted Australia to move its marquee home summer to February-March to avoid a clash with the WPL, where Australian players are highly sought after.
Hundred and WBBL Windows
The Hundred, England’s 100-ball competition, and the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL), Australia’s domestic T20 league, have been allotted dedicated windows in August and November, respectively. This will provide greater clarity and consistency in the women’s cricket calendar.
ICC Women’s ODI Championship Expansion
The ICC Women’s ODI Championship has been expanded to 11 teams, with Zimbabwe becoming the latest entrants. This follows the addition of Bangladesh and Ireland to the ongoing cycle, which will culminate in the ODI World Cup in India in October 2023. The inclusion of Zimbabwe ensures that all of the ICC’s Full Members, except Afghanistan, are now part of the championship.
T20 Champions Trophy
As part of its strategic plan to have at least one women’s global tournament each year, the ICC has introduced a T20 Champions Trophy to be held in Sri Lanka in 2027. This tournament will add to the already crowded calendar, which includes the LA Olympics in August 2028 and the T20 World Cup in September 2028.
Other Key Decisions
* The ICC has introduced a new points system for the ICC Women’s ODI Championship, which will determine qualification for the ODI World Cup.
* The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will be expanded to 12 teams from 2024 onwards.
* The ICC has committed to increasing investment in women’s cricket, including funding for development programs and coaching initiatives.
These changes aim to enhance the visibility, competitiveness, and sustainability of women’s cricket globally.
