The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced exciting new measures for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place in the UAE from October 3-20. For the first time, a global women’s cricket tournament will be held in the region, with tickets starting at just five Dirhams and free entry for children under 18, aiming to boost cricket’s popularity among young fans and create a lasting legacy for the sport in the UAE.
ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice highlighted the diverse nature of the UAE, calling it a “home World Cup” for all 10 teams, given the country’s multicultural population. With ticket prices set at an affordable five Dirhams and free entry for those under 18, the ICC is aiming to make the tournament accessible to families and young fans, encouraging a new generation to experience the excitement of live cricket.
In partnership with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) and Dubai Sports Council, the ICC will also host “Criio Festivals,” designed to introduce over 500 young girls to cricket. These festivals aim to provide fun, engaging experiences that will promote the sport and nurture future talent in the UAE.
UAE’s Expertise in Hosting Global Events
Zaid Abbas, a member of the ECB Board, expressed pride in the UAE’s role as host, emphasizing the nation’s proven experience in delivering top-tier international cricket events. After the tournament was relocated from Bangladesh, the UAE has stepped in to ensure that the best women’s cricketers from around the world will showcase their talents across Dubai and Sharjah.
The competition will span 23 matches, with the semifinals set for October 17 and 18, and the final scheduled for October 20 in Dubai. Abbas assured that the tournament would offer thrilling contests and unforgettable moments for players and fans alike, all while delivering another world-class sporting event.
Strengthening Women’s Cricket Legacy in the Region
This event represents a pivotal moment for women’s cricket, especially in the Middle East, where cricket is growing in popularity. By pricing tickets affordably and offering free entry for youth, the ICC and ECB aim to solidify the region’s commitment to promoting the sport across genders and generations. The introduction of youth-focused cricket festivals reinforces the ambition of creating a lasting legacy for women’s cricket in the UAE.
By involving local communities and fostering engagement through accessible pricing and youth initiatives, the ICC and ECB hope to encourage the growth of women’s cricket both regionally and globally. This inclusive approach will also ensure that the tournament’s impact continues long after the final match is played.
Diverse Teams and Anticipated Performances
The 10 participating teams have been divided into two groups, promising some of the most anticipated matchups in international cricket. Group A features six-time champions Australia, along with cricket powerhouses India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Group B includes Bangladesh, England, South Africa, West Indies, and Scotland, ensuring that fans will witness high-stakes cricket over the 18-day period.
The tournament will feature some of the top talents in women’s cricket, and with the UAE’s world-class venues—Dubai International Stadium and Sharjah Cricket Stadium—players will perform on some of the best stages in global cricket. The event’s structure promises intense rivalries, brilliant individual performances, and thrilling finishes that will elevate the women’s game to new heights.
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the UAE marks a historic moment for women’s cricket, not only for the players but for the sport’s development in the region. By making cricket more accessible and engaging for young audiences, the ICC and ECB are laying the foundation for future growth. The Criio Festivals, along with other local engagement programs, are expected to inspire the next generation of female cricketers in the UAE and beyond.
As the UAE continues to grow as a hub for international sporting events, hosting the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will strengthen its reputation for excellence in global sports. Beyond just a cricket tournament, the 2024 World Cup will be a celebration of diversity, inclusivity, and the future of women’s sports in the region.
The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 promises to be a landmark event for both cricket and women’s sports in the UAE. By making the tournament accessible to all, particularly young fans, the ICC and ECB are creating a platform to inspire future generations and grow the sport. With the UAE’s expertise and world-class facilities, the event is set to be a thrilling and unforgettable chapter in the history of women’s cricket.