Waterloo Bridge Transforms into Cricket Stage for Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Launch

Historic Cricketing Event at Waterloo Bridge

On Sunday, London's iconic Waterloo Bridge was transformed into a cricket pitch for the inaugural time, marking the spectacular launch of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026. This event brought together the captains of all 12 participating teams just days before the tournament kicks off on June 12.

This remarkable activation highlights the International Cricket Council's (ICC) goal to create the most engaging and innovative Women's T20 World Cup to date. The bridge, a symbol of London, was reimagined as a cricketing venue, showcasing the women's game in a vibrant urban setting.

Traffic was replaced by cricket as the captains gathered on a specially constructed pitch, with iconic landmarks like Big Ben, St Paul's Cathedral, and the London Eye in the background. This created a stunning visual just five days ahead of the first match in England and Wales, according to an ICC press release.

Stepping off a classic double-decker bus, the world's top players engaged in cricket challenges and fan interactions above the River Thames.

The Captain's Carnival marked the first public appearance of all 12 captains before the tournament, symbolizing the global growth and appeal of women's cricket.

Fans and young participants from London and other host cities, including Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, and Southampton, took part in street cricket, interactive games, and entertainment, turning Waterloo Bridge into a lively celebration of cricket and culture.

Fans had the chance to interact with the captains during the Women's #T20WorldCup 2026 Captain's Carnival. Watch the Q&A session live on various platforms.

Performers added to the festive atmosphere, bringing the colors and sounds of the competing teams to central London as excitement builds for what is anticipated to be the largest women's sporting event globally.

Content creators and digital influencers captured moments from the event, sharing them with millions of followers across social media. The event was also live-streamed on ICC's digital platforms and other broadcasting services.

Record-Breaking Anticipation

This innovative event exemplifies the ICC's dedication to expanding the reach of cricket and engaging new audiences. With ticket sales surpassing 200,000—a record before the tournament even begins—anticipation is high for an event that aims to redefine women's cricket on a global scale.

Official Statements on Landmark Event

ICC Chairman Jay Shah remarked, "This is a landmark moment for women's cricket and a fitting way to launch what we believe will be the most exciting and ambitious ICC Women's T20 World Cup ever staged. This will elevate the buzz and excitement around the event, providing the final boost to the anticipation for the tournament before the first ball is bowled on June 12 in Birmingham. This event reflects the ICC's commitment to building a more inclusive, global game."

Richard Thompson, ICC Director and Chair of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), stated, "Seeing these 12 captains playing cricket in a global first on an iconic London stage is a sign of how far the women's game has come and where it's headed. With just five days to go until the opening game, this landmark captain's event sets the scene for what promises to be the most attended and widely covered Women's World Cup ever."

Tournament Details

This summer, England and Wales will host the world's best cricketers as teams from around the globe compete for the ultimate prize. Matches will take place from the opening game at Edgbaston (Birmingham) to the final at Lord's Cricket Ground (London), with additional games in Old Trafford (Manchester), Headingley (Leeds), Hampshire Bowl (Southampton), Bristol County Ground (Bristol), and The Oval (London).

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 promises fierce rivalries, unforgettable moments, and a festive atmosphere at every venue.

The 12 teams competing are England, India, Australia, Bangladesh, Ireland, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Pakistan, Scotland, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies.

The tournament will commence on June 12 in the UK, with England facing Sri Lanka in the opening match. Team India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 14 in Birmingham.