By Victoria Hamilton 
The race to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England is heating up, with Ireland and the Netherlands emerging as the two European teams to secure places in the Global Qualifier.
Ireland had already booked their ticket after a dominant campaign, registering five wins in five matches to top the Europe Qualifier standings. Their consistency ensured they head into the final fixture with an unassailable lead.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, joined them after a convincing 65-run victory over Germany, a result that cemented their place in the top two. Even if Italy were to spring a surprise against Ireland in the final group clash, the Dutch side cannot be dislodged from their qualification spot.
Pathway to the Global Qualifier
With Europe now decided, Ireland and the Netherlands will line up alongside Bangladesh and Scotland, both of whom qualified automatically thanks to their appearances in the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup.
Other confirmed teams include the United States, winners of the Americas Qualifier earlier this year, and the Asian duo of Nepal and Thailand, who secured their spots in May.
That brings the confirmed tally to seven, with three more teams yet to be decided from the upcoming Africa and East-Asia Pacific regional qualifiers.
Four Places Up for Grabs
The 10-team Global Qualifier promises to be a fiercely contested event, with only the top four sides progressing to the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England. For associate nations like the Netherlands, Nepal, and Thailand, it represents both a golden chance and a stern test against higher-ranked opposition.
For Ireland, who have regularly featured on the global stage, the qualification offers another opportunity to build momentum and challenge the top teams. The Netherlands, on the other hand, will look to make the most of their rising form and secure only their second-ever T20 World Cup appearance.
The Road Ahead
With momentum on their side, Ireland enter the Global Qualifier as one of the favorites, while the Dutch will hope their mix of youth and experience can carry them through to a historic appearance.
As anticipation builds, women’s cricket fans worldwide now eagerly await the finalization of the 10 teams who will fight for just four golden tickets to England.