Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Bangladesh qualify for marquee event, Netherlands seal maiden entry

Bangladesh have secured their place in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in England later this year, providing a welcome boost amid recent disappointments in the country’s men’s cricket. The senior men’s team missed out on the T20 World Cup after boycotting the tournament due to security concerns in India, with Scotland taking their place. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s U19 men’s side failed to reach the semifinals of the ongoing U19 World Cup.

The women’s team, however, ensured Bangladesh’s presence on the global stage with a strong showing in the T20 World Cup Global Qualifier 2026, held in Nepal. Their qualification was confirmed following an impressive campaign in the Super Six stage. Bangladesh sealed a top-four finish after defeating Thailand by 39 runs in Mulpani, combined with the Netherlands’ 21-run DLS victory over the USA.

Batting first in the crucial encounter, Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 165 for 8 in their 20 overs. After losing opener Dilara Akter for a golden duck, Juwairiya Ferdous and Shobhana Mostary steadied the innings with a crucial 110-run partnership for the third wicket. Ferdous scored 56, while Mostary contributed 59, laying a strong foundation for the total.

Thailand’s chase never gained momentum as they were restricted to 126 for 8. Nathakan Chantham top-scored with 44, while Naruemol Chaiwai (30) and Nannapat Koncharoenkeat (29) offered some resistance. Bangladesh’s bowling attack was led by Marufa Akter, who claimed three wickets. Ritu Moni and Shorna Akter picked up two wickets each, while Fahima Khatun chipped in with one.

With this victory, Bangladesh moved to the top of the Super Six standings with six points and a net run rate of 1.15. They are set to face Scotland on Friday before concluding their Super Six fixtures against the Netherlands on Sunday in Mulpani.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands have also created history by qualifying for their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup. The Dutch secured their spot by finishing among the top four teams in the global qualifier, driven by consistent performances throughout the tournament. They topped Group B with notable victories, including a 17-run win over Thailand and a narrow two-run triumph against hosts Nepal, showcasing their resilience under pressure.

The Netherlands earned entry into the global qualifier by finishing second in the 2025 European Qualifier, claiming one of Europe’s qualification spots and successfully advancing to the Women’s T20 World Cup for the first time.