India will take on Pakistan on February 12 in a marquee clash to kick off their Women’s T20 World Cup campaign next year, the International Cricket Council confirmed on Monday. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side is part of Group 2 of the ten-team competition, which also features West Indies, England and Ireland.
After facing Pakistan on the second day of the three-week event in Cape Town, India will be up against the Windies on February 15, before rounding off their group stage fixtures with clashes versus England and Ireland at Gqeberha on February 18 and 20, respectively.
The tournament played in South Africa begins on February 11 with the hosts taking on Sri Lanka in Group 1 of the competition. Australia, New Zealand and Bangladesh are also part of Group 1.
The top 2 teams from respective five-team groups will make the cut for the semifinals, which will be held on February 23 and 24 in Cape Town, that will also host the final on February 27.
To ensure cover-up for potential weather-based and other possible interruptions, the ICC have kept a reserve day in place for each of the knock-out encounters. These reserve days are available on February 24 for the first semifinal, February 25 for the second semifinal and February 28 for the tournament final.
India versus Pakistan is not the only marquee clash arranged for the tournament, with Australia continuing their longstanding rivalry with New Zealand on February 13, South Africa facing New Zealand the next day, South Africa playing Australia on February 18 ahead of the semifinals.
“We are thrilled to be announcing the match schedule for the next ICC Women’s T20 World Cup as we look to build on the success of Australia 2020 and host a uniquely African celebration of cricket,”
“As a key strategic priority for the sport, women’s cricket continues to build momentum and engage more fans than ever before.”
ICC chief executive Geoff Allardice said in a media release.
Cricket South Africa chief executive Pholetsi Moseki said ICC and CSA expect fans to fill up the stands for the event with ticket prizes starting at a base sum of 60 Rands.
