The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier reached a dramatic conclusion on Day 8, with the final spots for the main event in England finally being decided. It was a day of high stakes, intense pressure, and clinical performances as the Super Six stage wrapped up in Nepal. By the end of the day’s play, the lineup for the 2026 tournament was confirmed, with Ireland and Scotland joining Bangladesh and the Netherlands as the successful qualifiers.
Ireland set for Women’s T20 World Cup return
Ireland officially secured their return to the world stage with a commanding 62-run victory over Thailand. After electing to bat first, the Irish side posted a total of 121/8 on a surface that offered plenty for the bowlers. The foundation was laid by a collective effort from the top order, with Gaby Lewis (25), Amy Hunter (24), and Orla Prendergast (24) all making vital contributions. While they struggled to accelerate in the death overs—largely due to a brilliant spell of 4/24 from Thailand’s legspinner Suleeporn Laomi—the total proved to be more than enough.
Thailand’s chase never truly got off the ground. The Irish bowling attack was relentless, led by the tournament’s standout medium-pacer Arlene Kelly. Kelly continued her devastating form, tearing through the Thai middle order to finish with incredible figures of 4 wickets for just 7 runs. Supported by Lara McBride, who claimed 3/6, Ireland bundled Thailand out for a mere 59 runs in 16.1 overs. This victory ensures Ireland will return to the T20 World Cup for the first time since 2023.
Bangladesh go five-for-five to complete perfect Qualifier campaign
Bangladesh cemented their status as the team to beat by completing a flawless qualifying campaign with a seven-wicket win over the Netherlands. Both teams had already secured their World Cup berths prior to this match, but the “Tigers” were determined to maintain their winning streak. The Netherlands elected to bat first but faced an immediate crisis, collapsing to 23/5 within the first eight overs against a disciplined Bangladesh attack.
A resilient sixth-wicket partnership of 78 runs between Sanya Khurana (43 off 37) and Robine Rijke (39 off 45) helped the Dutch reach a respectable 102/6. However, Bangladesh’s Nahida Akter remained the pick of the bowlers with 3/10. In response, captain Nigar Sultana Joty led from the front, smashing an unbeaten 50 off 44 balls to guide her team home with 20 balls to spare. Bangladesh finishes the tournament with five wins from five matches, signaling they will be a formidable force when they head to England.
Scotland seal Women’s T20 World Cup spot
In what was effectively a “winner-takes-all” showdown for the final qualifying spot, Scotland produced a dominant display to defeat the USA by 41 runs. Winning the toss and choosing to bat, Scotland’s openers set a frantic pace. Darcey Carter was the star of the show, blasting 52 runs off just 34 deliveries, including seven boundaries and two sixes. The momentum was sustained by Alisa Lister (43) and Priyanaz Chatterji (39), propelling Scotland to a massive total of 178/8—the highest score of the day.
Despite the heavy hitting, USA pacer Tara Norris showed why she ended the tournament as the leading wicket-taker, claiming 4/33. The USA’s pursuit of 179 was spirited but ultimately fell short as they were bowled out for 137 in 19 overs. Scotland’s victory marks their second successive qualification for the marquee event, following their debut in 2024. With all matches concluded, the stage is now set for a 12-team battle for the world title in June and July 2026.