Women’s T20 World Cup Opens London Build-Up With Captains’ Carnival

London staged the launch of the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup with Waterloo Bridge used as a temporary cricket venue, the first time that had happened in England.

The Captains’ Carnival brought together all 12 captains beside the River Thames before the tournament begins on June 12 in England and Wales. It was also the first time the full group of captains appeared together for the event.

With Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye nearby, organisers used the setting to underline the expanding reach, profile and audience for women’s cricket.

ICC chair Jay Shah described the launch as “a fitting way” to begin the global tournament. “This is a landmark moment for women’s cricket and a fitting way to launch what we believe will be the most exciting and ambitious ICC Women’s T20 World Cup ever staged.”

“This will help elevate the buzz and excitement around the event, providing the final boost to the anticipation for the tournament before the first ball is bowled on June 12 in Birmingham,” Shah said.

He added: “This event is another expression of the ICC’s commitment and belief linked to the agenda of building a more inclusive, global game.”

Before the opening match, ticket purchases had already climbed to about 200,000, a new high for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and more than past editions. The early interest points to the possibility of further records once play gets under way.