The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially announced that the first ever ICC Women’s Champions Trophy will be staged in India next year, following the removal of Sri Lanka as the original host nation. The decision comes after concerns about government interference in Sri Lankan cricket administration led to the revocation of Sri Lanka’s hosting privileges. The tournament, which will feature six of the world’s top women’s cricket teams, is scheduled to run from 14 February to 28 February of the upcoming season.
While the event was initially slated to be held across venues in Sri Lanka, the ICC has now confirmed that the matches will be played in two Indian cities: Mumbai, at the historic Cricket Club of India, and Vadodara, at the International Cricket Stadium. Sri Lanka lost its right to organize the competition because the Sri Lankan government intervened in the governance of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), installing an interim administration that has yet to satisfy the ICC’s requirements for independence and transparency. The ICC noted that SLC must continue to implement the reforms that were outlined at the ICC’s Annual Conference in July. In the meantime, the council evaluated other possible hosts, including Bangladesh and South Africa, before ultimately selecting India as the most suitable venue.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah welcomed the decision, describing the 2027 Women’s Champions Trophy as a landmark moment for the women’s game. "The ICC Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 marks an exciting new chapter for women’s cricket," Shah said. "As the inaugural edition of the tournament, it will bring together the best teams in the world in an intense, high‑quality competition, while creating even greater incentive for teams to continue rising through the rankings and competing for a place on the global stage." He continued, "With a marquee ICC women’s event now taking place every year, we have a significant opportunity to build greater momentum, provide more consistency and create a stronger rhythm for the women’s game, its players and its fans around the world." Shah’s remarks underline the ICC’s strategic aim to elevate the profile of women’s cricket through regular, high‑visibility tournaments that complement existing series and world cups. The six nations that have qualified for the event are Australia, England, India, New Zealand, South Africa and the host Sri Lanka.
Qualification was based on the ICC Women’s T20I Team Rankings as of the cut‑off date of 6 July, ensuring that the tournament showcases the sport’s elite. Each side will compete in a round‑robin format, playing every other team once. The two teams that finish atop the points table after the league stage will advance to the championship final, which is slated for 28 February.
The choice of venues in India reflects both logistical convenience and the country’s deep cricketing heritage. The Cricket Club of India in Mumbai, often referred to as the CCI, is one of the most iconic cricket grounds in the subcontinent, known for its lush outfield and storied history of hosting marquee matches. Vadodara’s International Cricket Stadium, meanwhile, offers modern facilities and a reputation for enthusiastic crowds, making it an ideal setting for high‑stakes international fixtures.
Beyond the on‑field action, the tournament is expected to generate a host of ancillary benefits. Local economies in Mumbai and Vadodara stand to gain from increased tourism, hospitality demand, and media exposure. Moreover, the event will provide a platform for young female athletes in India and across the participating nations to witness world‑class cricket up close, potentially inspiring the next generation of players.
Fans can look forward to a comprehensive media package, with live broadcasts, highlights, and analytical commentary available across major sports networks and streaming platforms. The ICC has also promised to deliver a suite of digital content, including match‑day podcasts, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes features, to deepen engagement for global audiences.
In addition to the tournament itself, the ICC will use the occasion to promote its broader agenda for women’s cricket, which includes initiatives aimed at increasing participation at the grassroots level, improving coaching standards, and ensuring equitable pay and resources for female cricketers. The Champions Trophy will serve as a showcase for these efforts, demonstrating how elite competition can coexist with sustainable development pathways.
For cricket enthusiasts eager to stay updated, the ICC advises using the Chrome browser for optimal video playback and recommends subscribing to sports notification services to receive real‑time scores, results, and breaking news. The organization also highlights its partnership with Sky Sports, which will host a dedicated cricket podcast covering the tournament’s progress, player insights, and expert analysis. Overall, the relocation of the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy to India marks a significant step forward for the sport.
It not only ensures that the tournament proceeds without disruption but also positions India as a central hub for the continued growth and celebration of women’s cricket on the world stage.