The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up matches delivered exciting performances as several teams built momentum ahead of the main tournament. South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Scotland all secured impressive victories, showcasing their strengths in different conditions.
South Africa registered a hard-fought 16-run win over Ireland in a rain-reduced 18-over match in Loughborough. After being asked to bat first, captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a brilliant 65 off 37 balls, striking seven fours and three sixes to guide her side to 136 for 8. Ireland’s chase never gained full momentum, with Leah Paul top-scoring with 29. The difference came through an outstanding bowling performance from Marizanne Kapp, who picked up 4 for 24, while Tumi Sekhukhune and Shabnim Ismail provided strong support to bowl Ireland out for 120.
New Zealand produced one of the most dominant displays of the warm-up stage, defeating Bangladesh by 68 runs. Batting first, the defending champions piled up 193 for 3, with captain Melie Kerr smashing an unbeaten 51 off 28 balls. Contributions from Suzie Bates and Izzy Sharp further strengthened the total. Bangladesh struggled in reply and were restricted to 125 for 8, despite an unbeaten 32 from Nigar Sultana Joty. The standout performer with the ball was Nensi Patel, who claimed 4 for 18, supported well by Lea Tahuhu and others.
Sri Lanka delivered a batting masterclass to chase down 169 against Pakistan with ease, winning by nine wickets. Captain Chamari Athapaththu starred with a magnificent 94 off 56 balls, smashing five sixes and nine fours. She shared a match-defining 159-run opening partnership with Vishmi Gunaratne, who contributed 63. Earlier, Pakistan had posted 168 for 8, with Fatima Sana top-scoring with 37. Sri Lanka’s bowling effort was led by Chethana Vimukthi, who impressed with figures of 4 for 31.
Scotland also delivered a commanding performance, defeating Netherlands by 58 runs in Derby. Batting first, Scotland posted 163 for 5, with key contributions from Darcey Carter (33), captain Kathryn Bryce (32), and Priyanaz Chatterji (32*). In response, Netherlands were bowled out for 105, with only Frederique Overdijk making a notable contribution with 28*. Scotland’s bowlers dominated, with Katherine Fraser taking 3 for 21 and Gabriella Fontenla picking up 2 for 2, supported by Abtaha Maqsood.
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These results underline the strong form of several teams heading into the tournament. While favorites like Australia and New Zealand continue to look dominant, teams like Sri Lanka and South Africa have also shown they are ready to challenge for top honors.
