ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: Revised Schedule Announced for UAE
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 Revised Schedule groups and fixtures for the much-anticipated ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024. Originally it was scheduled in Bangladesh, but tournament has now been moved to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to logistical challenges. Fans across the world are gearing up for an exciting event featuring the top women’s cricket teams. The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will be played in two of UAE’s iconic cricket venues—Dubai International Cricket Stadium and Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The tournament promises 23 thrilling matches, culminating in the grand finale on 20 October. Why the Venue Shifted to the UAE? Bangladesh was initially chosen to host the 2024 edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. However, due to unexpected logistical issues, the International Cricket Council (ICC) decided to move the event to the UAE. The decision was made in August 2024 to ensure the smooth running of the tournament. The UAE, known for its world-class facilities, has successfully hosted various high-profile cricket tournaments in the past. With a strong cricketing culture and experienced event management teams, the shift to the UAE ensures that the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will be delivered to the highest standards. Though the event has moved, Bangladesh still retains its hosting rights. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will collaborate closely with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) to make sure everything runs smoothly. Group A: Australia, India, and the Big Contenders In Group A, the competition is fierce. Six-time champions Australia are widely considered the favorites. They are grouped alongside 2020 runners-up India, a strong New Zealand side, and two determined Asian teams—Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Each of these teams brings something unique to the tournament. Australia has dominated this format, winning six out of the eight editions held so far. However, India’s performance in recent years has shown they are no pushovers. Their encounter with arch-rival Pakistan on 6 October in Dubai will undoubtedly be one of the tournament’s most-watched matches. Group B: South Africa, England, and a Balanced Line-up Group B has an equally exciting line-up, featuring 2023 runners-up South Africa and 2016 champions West Indies. These teams are joined by England, Bangladesh, and Scotland. England’s depth and South Africa’s recent surge in women’s cricket have set them up as potential semifinalists. Bangladesh, the co-hosts, will aim to make a statement after earning their spot through the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier. Meanwhile, Scotland is the underdog team, and their recent qualification marks an exciting opportunity for them to compete against the best in the world. Tournament Format and Key Matches to Watch The tournament format is simple and designed to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Each team in both groups will play four group matches. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for 17 and 18 October. The winners will face off in the final on 20 October at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. In the event of rain or other disruptions, reserve days have been scheduled for both the semi-finals and the final. Key matches include: Australia will begin their title defense on 5 October against Sri Lanka. This match will be crucial for Sri Lanka, a team led by their seasoned captain Chamari Athapaththu. The young talent in Sri Lanka will be eager to showcase their skills on this big stage. Fixture Schedule for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 Date Day Match Venue Time (Local) 3 October 2024 Thursday Bangladesh vs Scotland Sharjah 2 PM 3 October 2024 Thursday Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Sharjah 6 PM 4 October 2024 Friday South Africa vs West Indies Dubai 2 PM 4 October 2024 Friday India vs New Zealand Dubai 6 PM 5 October 2024 Saturday Australia vs Sri Lanka Sharjah 2 PM 5 October 2024 Saturday Bangladesh vs England Sharjah 6 PM 6 October 2024 Sunday India vs Pakistan Dubai 2 PM 6 October 2024 Sunday West Indies vs Scotland Dubai 6 PM 7 October 2024 Monday England vs South Africa Sharjah 6 PM 8 October 2024 Tuesday Australia vs New Zealand Sharjah 6 PM 9 October 2024 Wednesday South Africa vs Scotland Dubai 2 PM 9 October 2024 Wednesday India vs Sri Lanka Dubai 6 PM 10 October 2024 Thursday Bangladesh vs West Indies Sharjah 6 PM 11 October 2024 Friday Australia vs Pakistan Dubai 6 PM 12 October 2024 Saturday New Zealand vs Sri Lanka Sharjah 2 PM 12 October 2024 Saturday Bangladesh vs South Africa Dubai 6 PM 13 October 2024 Sunday England vs Scotland Sharjah 2 PM 13 October 2024 Sunday India vs Australia Sharjah 6 PM 14 October 2024 Monday Pakistan vs New Zealand Dubai 6 PM 15 October 2024 Tuesday England vs West Indies Dubai 6 PM 17 October 2024 Thursday Semi-final 1 Dubai 6 PM 18 October 2024 Friday Semi-final 2 Sharjah 6 PM 20 October 2024 Sunday Final Dubai 6 PM for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 Warm-Up Matches for Preparation Before the official tournament begins, 10 warm-up matches will take place from 28 September to 1 October. These games will be played at the Sevens Stadium and ICC Academy grounds in Dubai. They give teams a chance to fine-tune their strategies and get accustomed to the UAE’s playing conditions. What to Expect in the Knockout Stages The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages. Based on current form, Australia, India, South Africa, and England are strong contenders to make it to the semi-finals. However, cricket is unpredictable, and upsets are always possible. The tournament’s knockout rounds promise high-stakes action. If India qualifies, they are expected to play in Semi-final 1 in Dubai. This ensures that fans will get to witness some of the most intense cricket matches of the year. Conclusion: The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions yet. With top teams like Australia, India, England, and South Africa
