ICC Announces Robust Women’s Future Tours Programme for 2025-2029
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled an ambitious Women’s Future Tours Programme (FTP) from 2025 to 2029. This new FTP represents a significant step forward in promoting women’s cricket globally, underpinned by the fourth edition of the ICC Women’s Championship (IWC). The structure aims to provide clarity and consistency in international fixtures across all three formats, with a remarkable total of about 400 matches confirmed for the upcoming cycle.
Increased Opportunities Across All Formats
The 2025-2029 FTP indicates a substantial increase in matches compared to the previous cycle (2022-2025). Crucially, this plan includes an ICC event each year, starting with the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup scheduled for 2025 in India. Following this will be the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Kingdom in 2026 and the inaugural six-team Champions Trophy set for 2027. Additionally, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in 2028 will offer further competitive opportunities, with the host nation yet to be confirmed.
Expanding Participation and Competitive Structure
The Women’s Championship has proven essential in increasing the frequency of international cricket since its inception in 2014. The latest edition sees participation expand to 11 teams, with Zimbabwe joining the ranks of the ten competing nations in the ongoing third edition. All teams will play a series of matches against each other, comprising four home and four away series. In total, 132 One Day Internationals (ODIs) will be played across 44 three-match series, setting a clear qualification pathway for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in 2029.
Tri-Series and Enhanced Test Matches
In a collaborative effort, Member Boards have agreed to schedule tri-series as preparatory measures leading up to ICC events. For instance, ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, England will host India and New Zealand in a three-team T20I tournament, while Ireland will welcome Pakistan and the West Indies. Moreover, the FTP indicates an increase in Test matches, with Australia, England, India, South Africa, and the West Indies participating in multi-format series that include ODIs and T20Is. Australia is set to lead with two series against England, India, and South Africa, as well as one against the West Indies.
Positive Outlook for Women’s Cricket
ICC General Manager of Cricket, Wasim Khan, expressed optimism regarding the newly announced FTP. He emphasized that the expanded Women’s Championship will offer a pathway to the 2029 Women’s Cricket World Cup while providing the necessary context for ODIs. The FTP also aims to enhance clarity for both teams and fans, reinforcing the ICC’s commitment to the women’s game.
Member Collaboration
The collaborative spirit among Member Boards has been a crucial factor in the formation of the FTP. Wasim Khan highlighted the enthusiasm among these boards to participate across multiple formats, with the planned tri-series exemplifying this commitment. Such initiatives will serve to elevate the women’s game, providing players with more opportunities for competition and development.
Structure and Qualification Pathways
The new FTP not only ensures an increase in the number of matches but also strengthens the qualification pathways for major ICC events. By establishing a clear competitive structure, it enables teams to prepare strategically, allowing them to gauge their readiness for the high stakes of international tournaments. The ongoing collaboration between ICC and its Members underscores the importance of collective efforts in enhancing women’s cricket.
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Looking Ahead
As the women’s cricket landscape continues to evolve, the 2025-2029 FTP represents a landmark initiative that promises to bolster the game’s profile and competitive nature. With a schedule filled with significant events and an expanded championship, the future looks promising for women’s cricket on the international stage.
Conclusion: A New Era for Women’s Cricket
The announcement of this comprehensive FTP signifies a new era for women’s cricket, marked by increased visibility, competitive opportunities, and a clearer framework for international play. As the cricketing world gears up for this exciting period, the commitment shown by ICC and its Member Boards will undoubtedly lead to a thriving environment for women cricketers globally, inspiring future generations of players.
