Can Nepal Qualify for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026? Here’s the Full Roadmap
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be hosted in England, marking the 10th edition of this prestigious tournament. As the host nation, England has automatically qualified, along with the top five teams from the 2024 edition: Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and the West Indies. In addition, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have secured their spots based on the ICC Women’s T20 rankings. The remaining four spots will be filled through Global Qualifiers, where teams from Asia, Africa, Europe, the Americas, and East Asia-Pacific will compete.
How Can Nepal Qualify?
Every Nepali cricket fan dreams of seeing Nepal’s women’s team play in a World Cup. While the men’s team has already played in the 2014 and 2024 T20 World Cups, the women’s team has yet to make their debut. This time, however, Nepal has a realistic chance but the path is challenging. To qualify, Nepal must first succeed in the Asia Region Qualifier, and then advance through the Global Qualifier.
Asia Qualifier 2025
The First Big Test The Asia Qualifier is where Nepal’s journey begins. Nine teams are participating, and only two will advance to the Global Qualifier. Participating Teams: 1. Bhutan 2. Kuwait 3. Thailand 4. Malaysia 5. Nepal 6. Qatar 7. United Arab Emirates 8. Hong Kong 9. Bahrain ⸻ When and Where? The tournament begins on May 9, 2025, in Thailand. The nine teams are divided into three groups: Group A: • Bhutan • Kuwait • Thailand Group B: • Malaysia • Qatar • UAE Group C: • Bahrain • Hong Kong • Nepal ⸻ Tournament Format
- Group Stage:
- Each team will play two matches within its group (double round-robin format).
- Group Winners:
- The top team from each group advances to the next round.
- Super 3 Stage:
- The three group winners will play against each other in another round-robin format.
- Final 2 Teams:
- The top two teams from the Super 3 will qualify for the Global Qualifier.
Nepal’s Challenge: Can They Make It?
Nepal is placed in a challenging group with Bahrain and Hong Kong, both strong contenders. To reach the Super 3, Nepal must play with strong intent, smart strategies, and peak performance. While it’s not going to be easy, if the team plays united, stays mentally strong, and delivers its best game, there’s a real chance Nepal could reach the Global Qualifier and perhaps even the World Cup.
Global Qualifier
The Final Gateway The Global Qualifier will feature 10 teams: Already qualified: Bangladesh, Scotland, USA • 2 teams from Asia Qualifier • 2 from Europe • 2 from Africa • 1 from East Asia-Pacific These teams will be split into two groups of five. Each team plays four matches in the group stage. The top 2 teams from each group go to the semifinals. The finalists (top 2) will qualify for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Conclusion
Nepal’s path to the World Cup is tough but not impossible. With dedication, preparation, and belief, the Nepali women’s cricket team could create history. Let’s support our team and dream big Nepal in the Women’s World Cup 2026.
