The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed an expanded format for the second edition of the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy, increasing the competition from eight to ten teams. The tournament, scheduled for November, will now include both Full Member and Associate nations as part of efforts to strengthen the global women’s game.
Five Test-playing teams – Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Zimbabwe and Ireland – will feature alongside Associate nations Netherlands, Scotland, Thailand, United Arab Emirates and Papua New Guinea.
Shift from Inaugural Edition
The revised structure represents a change from the inaugural tournament held in Bangkok in November 2025, which featured only Associate teams along with hosts Thailand.
That edition included Scotland, Netherlands, UAE, Papua New Guinea, Namibia, Uganda and Tanzania, and was designed to provide increased international exposure for emerging sides. Thailand went on to win the title after finishing level on points with UAE, Scotland and the Netherlands, with net run rate deciding the standings.
Focus on Development Pathways
The inclusion of Test-playing nations signals a broader push by the ICC to create stronger development pathways in women’s cricket. By bringing together teams from different competitive levels, the tournament aims to provide more meaningful match experience, particularly for Associate sides.
Countries such as Netherlands, Scotland and Thailand will now face higher-ranked opposition, while teams like Ireland and Zimbabwe gain additional opportunities as they continue to build and strengthen their women’s programmes.
Growing Importance of Emerging Competitions
The expansion comes amid increased emphasis on growing women’s cricket globally. The ICC has identified development across all levels as a key priority, focusing on improving competitiveness and creating more opportunities for emerging nations.
Tournaments like the Emerging Nations Trophy play a significant role in that strategy, especially for Associate teams that often have limited international schedules.
Part of a Broader Growth Strategy
In recent years, women’s cricket has seen greater professionalisation, the rise of domestic leagues and increased global interest. The Emerging Nations Trophy is part of that wider framework, aimed at expanding the talent base and improving standards across regions.
With ten teams confirmed for the upcoming edition, the 2026 tournament is set to offer a more competitive and significant platform compared to its inaugural outing.
