Introduction:
The stage is set for one of the most anticipated events in women’s cricket – the 2025 Women’s World Cup. This prestigious tournament will be held from September 30 to November 2, 2025, and will take place across five iconic venues in India and Sri Lanka. The host cities – Bengaluru, Guwahati, Indore, Visakhapatnam, and Colombo – are brimming with excitement as they prepare to welcome eight of the world’s best teams for this cricketing extravaganza.
In this blog, we will dive into the details of the tournament’s schedule, the venues, and the significance of the final, which is expected to be held in either Bengaluru or Colombo. Read on to find out why this event will be a game-changer for women’s cricket!
Tournament Overview:
The 2025 Women’s World Cup will feature eight teams: India, Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. These teams will compete across multiple venues to secure a place in the highly coveted final.
The Schedule:
- Tournament Dates: September 30 – November 2, 2025
- Opening Match: India vs. an opponent (details to be confirmed) will kickstart the tournament on September 30 in Bengaluru.
- Semi-Finals: The first semi-final will take place on October 29, with Guwahati or Colombo hosting the match. The second semi-final is scheduled for October 30 in Bengaluru.
- The Grand Finale: The final match of the 2025 Women’s World Cup will be held on November 2, 2025. The location will either be Bengaluru or Colombo. This promises to be an exciting conclusion to an unforgettable tournament.
Venues for the Tournament:
- Bengaluru: Known for its passionate cricketing crowd and vibrant sporting culture, Bengaluru is set to be a key venue for the Women’s World Cup. The city will host both the opening match and one of the semi-finals, making it a focal point of the tournament.
- Colombo: This picturesque Sri Lankan city will play a critical role in the competition, especially as the home venue for Pakistan’s matches, following the political tensions between India and Pakistan. Colombo will also host one of the semi-finals and potentially the final if Pakistan makes it that far.
- Guwahati: The city in northeastern India is excited to host its first major international women’s cricket event. Guwahati will provide a unique atmosphere for the first semi-final match.
- Indore and Visakhapatnam: Both cities will offer fans from across India the chance to witness world-class cricket action. They will host various group-stage matches, ensuring a wide-reaching impact for the tournament.
What Makes Bengaluru and Colombo Stand Out?
While the 2025 Women’s World Cup will be held across five venues, the final match will either take place in Bengaluru or Colombo. Both cities have their distinct appeal:
- Bengaluru, India’s “Silicon Valley,” is known for its modern amenities and vibrant atmosphere. With a rich cricketing heritage and a history of hosting thrilling matches, it’s no surprise that Bengaluru is being considered for the final. The city’s famous M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has hosted numerous memorable cricketing moments, and it’s expected to provide an electric atmosphere for the grand finale.
- Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital, offers a scenic backdrop with its coastal views. Known for its love of cricket, Colombo’s Pallekele International Stadium will surely deliver a historic atmosphere. The city’s role as a neutral ground for Pakistan also adds intrigue, as it could serve as a crucial location for the final.
ICC’s Strategic Decisions for the 2025 Women’s World Cup:
The decision to host the Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka comes after the ICC worked carefully on selecting neutral venues for teams, particularly Pakistan, due to the ongoing political tensions with India. While the Indian Men’s team played its Champions Trophy games in Dubai earlier this year, Pakistan’s Women’s team will play all their matches in Colombo.
This collaborative approach by the ICC aims to ensure all teams have a fair and balanced playing field, making the 2025 Women’s World Cup a global event to remember.
