West Indies and New Zealand open their 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup campaigns against each other on Saturday, meeting in the tournament’s Group A competition as England hosts the competition across venues from Birmingham to London.

West Indies Women have twice reached the Women’s T20 World Cup final, claiming the trophy in 2016 and finishing runners-up in 2010. The side arrives in England with a blend of experienced Caribbean players and younger talent looking to establish themselves at the international level.

New Zealand, known as the White Ferns, have been consistent performers in recent ICC tournaments without yet reaching a final. The side is built around the reliable batting of Suzie Bates, who at 37 is playing what is likely her last World Cup and is New Zealand’s all-time leading run-scorer in women’s international cricket.

Both sides warmed up against international opponents this week. West Indies narrowly lost to Australia in a pre-tournament practice match, while New Zealand were beaten by India in a close contest that nevertheless showed the White Ferns were competitive at this level.

Group A also includes England, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Ireland. It is considered the tougher of the two groups, and both West Indies and New Zealand will need at least two more victories to feel confident of advancing to the semi-finals after this opening clash.

The Women’s T20 World Cup is being staged in England for the first time, running through the final at Lord’s on July 8. ICC has expanded the tournament from 10 to 12 nations for this edition, with Ireland and Thailand making their debuts. The ICC website carries live scores and standings. England’s dominant opening win over Sri Lanka set a high standard in Group A. The broader tournament overview covers all group fixtures.