Pakistan Women’s T20 World Cup 2028 hosting confirmed as ICC Board meeting in Ahmedabad clears a sweeping set of tournament and governance decisions
Pakistan is getting a Cricket World Cup. The International Cricket Council awarded Pakistan hosting rights for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2028 — the country’s first-ever women’s global event. The Pakistan Women’s T20 World Cup decision came at an ICC Board meeting in Ahmedabad. Moreover, under the existing hybrid arrangement covering Pakistan-India fixtures, India’s matches during the tournament will take place at a neutral venue rather than in Pakistan.
The ICC Board meeting produced several other significant decisions alongside the hosting announcement. The governing body approved a trial use of the pink ball in Test matches when both teams agree. The move aims to reduce time lost due to bad light. Furthermore, the ICC increased the innings break in T20 internationals from its current duration to 15 minutes. Therefore, players and broadcasters alike will see a slightly longer window between innings in the shortest format.
Tournament scheduling also saw changes. The ICC Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 shifted from its original June-July window to February 14-28, 2027. Additionally, the Emerging Nations Trophy 2026 will now feature 10 teams — five Full Members and five Associate sides. The ICC also approved a new 16-team global qualifying tournament for the Men’s T20 World Cup, creating a broader pathway for nations aiming to reach the event.
On governance, the ICC suspended the Canada Cricket Board over serious breaches. However, Canada’s national team can still participate in ICC events. Furthermore, the ICC announced a two-member delegation will visit Bangladesh to review multiple matters, including the BCB’s electoral process. A similar visit to Sri Lanka has already concluded.
The ICC also flagged growing concern over the rapid rise of franchise cricket. It formed a new committee to examine how to maintain balance between international cricket and domestic leagues. Finally, for Pakistan, the Women’s T20 World Cup hosting rights represent a meaningful step forward — proof that the country’s return to mainstream international cricket continues to gather pace.
