The first-ever women’s Test in the history of the venerable Lord’s in London will take place next year when England Women and India Women play each other. When the English board announced its planned calendar for the home summer of 2026 on Thursday, July 24, they reaffirmed the same.
On July 10, 2026, the cricketing superpowers will play their one-off Test match. Additionally, the two teams will play each other in three Twenty20 Internationals: Taunton on June 2, Bristol on May 30, and Chelmsford on May 28. The England and Wales Cricket Board‘s (ECB) chief executive officer, Richard Gould, released a statement on the subject. Gould also discussed the Women’s T20 World Cup, which is coming up, and how it will be a significant event for women’s cricket.
The first-ever England Women’s Test match at Lord’s is an exciting moment for the women’s game, and we’re excited about it. The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which is being held in England for the first time since 2009, will surely be the summer’s high point. According to an ECB statement, Gould said, “It’s a huge moment for the women’s game, for Nat Sciver-Brunt and her team, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to inspire the next generation of players and fans.”
ECB wants supporters to see the best
The one-time women’s Test match will be followed by the men’s T20I and ODI series between England and India. Durham (July 1), Manchester (July 4), Nottingham (July 7), Bristol (July 9), and Southampton (July 11) will host the five 20-over matches. The three One-Day Internationals are set to begin on July 14 in Birmingham, with matches at Cardiff on July 16 and Lord’s on July 19.
The prospect of a magnificent summer of international cricket in 2026 excites us much. The announcement went on to say, “Fans will have the opportunity to witness the very best of the men’s and women’s game as world-class opposition visits iconic venues across the country.”
In the final Test cricket match between the two nations, India Women defeated the English by an overwhelming 347-run margin.
The Player of the Match award was won by Deepti Sharma (67 & 5/7 — 1st inns; 20, 4/32 — 2nd inns). The Indian team is hoping to perform similarly when they return.