ICC launches new initiative with inaugural Women’s Cricket Week

The ICC have continued their ongoing commitment to women's cricket by introducing details of the first-ever ICC Women's Cricket Week.

The new initiative will showcase and support the growth of women’s cricket and encourage national governing bodies to participate in meaningful and locally relevant ways and will run from October 16-22 this year to coincide with the ongoing ICC Women's Cricket World Cup that is being hosted by India.

ICC Women’s Cricket Week will run as an annual event, with a vision to significantly enhance the visibility, profile, and participation of women in cricket around the world.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah praised the initiative, which was endorsed by both the ICC Women’s Cricket Committee and the ICC Chief Executives’ Committee earlier this year.

"This year has already marked a turning point for women’s cricket, with record-breaking crowds, landmark performances, and an unmistakable sense of momentum building around the game," Shah said.

“The launch of the ICC Women’s Cricket Week is another proud milestone, a celebration not just of the players on the world stage, but of every girl picking up a bat or ball, dreaming of what’s possible. It gives our Members, from Full to Associate, a meaningful opportunity to participate in the global narrative and shape the future of the women’s game in their own communities.”

A number of Full Members have already committed to the new campaign, with England, South Africa and New Zealand confirming exciting initiatives to help raise the awareness and support the growth of women’s cricket.

• The England and Wales Cricket Board has promoted recreational cricket and raised excitement ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026.

• Cricket South Africa will host a full-day event at the high school of Proteas women’s wicket-keeper Karabo Meso, including a panel discussion, mini-cricket matches, and a match featuring former Proteas players.

• New Zealand Cricket has already delivered a “Mini World Cup” for young girls.

Many Associate Members have also showed their support, with three key areas targeted.

1. Watch Parties to bring communities together and increase the awareness of women’s cricket.

2. Female Coach and Teacher Education initiatives to address the shortage of female leaders in the sport.

3. Women’s Participation Events including festivals and competitions under the ICC’s criiio programme.

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