The Netherlands have scripted one of the most heart-warming stories in women’s cricket, sealing their maiden qualification for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 after an unbeaten run at the Global Qualifiers in Nepal.

The historic moment was confirmed with a 21-run victory over the USA via the DLS method at the rain-hit TU Stadium. Chasing 130, the Dutch were cruising at 90 for two in 12 overs when rain halted play. With the par score comfortably surpassed, celebrations began early - and memorably - as players dived joyfully onto the soaked covers, fully aware they had just changed the course of Dutch women’s cricket.

From associate underdogs to World Cup debutants, the Dutch women turn belief into history

Led by captain Babette de Leede, the Netherlands were flawless throughout the tournament. They topped Group B with wins over Zimbabwe, Scotland, Nepal and Thailand, before beating the United States women's cricket team in their first Super Six match to seal qualification with two games to spare.

Watch the video:

The Dutch Women have just done a celebratory dive on top of the rain soaked covers at TU Stadium in Kathmandu. Today's result, a 21-run DLS win over USA, means they're going to the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup. pic.twitter.com/orDS7LUJXb

— Peter Della Penna (@PeterDellaPenna) January 28, 2026

Netherlands women's captain Babette de Leede:

"We're one of the few countries with no contracts at all. We're an Associate country, where cricket is very small, but we made sure that everyone bought into this dream, and our dream has come true"#T20WorldCup #WT20WCQ pic.twitter.com/i1VacVgPet

— hypocaust (@_hypocaust) January 28, 2026

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What makes the achievement even more remarkable is the context. Speaking after qualification, de Leede highlighted the uphill battle faced by her side, noting that the team operates without central contracts in a country where cricket remains a minority sport. Yet belief, unity and commitment to a shared dream carried them through.

The 2026 edition will feature 12 teams and be hosted in England and Wales from June to July. Alongside the Netherlands, Bangladesh women's cricket team also booked their place, while Scotland, Ireland, the USA and Thailand continue to battle for the remaining spots.

For the Netherlands, this qualification is more than just a tournament entry - it’s a powerful statement that dreams in associate cricket can, and do, come true.

The Women's T20 Blaze started with a strange and disorganized first over which prompted people to discuss and examine the quality of play and the management and the referee decisions in West Indies women's domestic cricket.

Extras-filled over turns contest into a non-event within minutes

The match between Jamaica Women and Windward Islands Women at Arnos Vale Stadium reached its peak during the fifth place play-off when a single over extended to 21 pitches which resulted in 44 runs. The over produced an extraordinary number of wides and no-balls which resulted in 22 runs from three valid pitches, which caused both supporters and analysts to become astonished.

Jamaica achieved an unbroken 44 runs during their initial batting period before they successfully reached their target of 65 runs without losing any wickets, therefore they needed only 3.4 overs to secure their fifth place victory. The victory margin showed a complete dominance of the match because the team won by 10 wickets while still having 98 balls remaining to play.

A 21 ball over in the T20 blaze

Jamaica Women 44/0 after 1 over.

I've seen it all now. We need to pack WI cricket up pic.twitter.com/d3VJUh6wFj

— Caribbean Cricket Podcast (@CaribCricket) January 23, 2026

The public on social media platforms reacted immediately and harshly to the situation. The over clips became popular online, leading many fans to call the match "farcical" while they doubted how such mistakes could happen during professional domestic matches. The fans who watched the over complete breakdown of order from players and officials, which led them to suspect that there were hidden problems with match management and player training and administrative authority.

ALSO SEE: "Jab samay ayega..." - Ishan Kishan slams 21-ball fifty to lift team spirit after early openers fall in IND vs NZ 2nd T20I

Incident reignites debate over governance and structures in West Indies cricket

The evidence needs to show wrongdoing before the case can proceed to its next stage of investigation. The episode has exposed serious problems which West Indies cricket must resolve through its domestic cricketing framework. 

Cricket West Indies needs to review its umpiring standards, player development pathways, and tournament management because of the increasing demand for such changes. The women's game in the region faces difficulty because historical moments from the region's cricketing past threaten to damage both its credibility and its development. The placement match which should have happened as a routine event has turned into a major conflict which West Indies cricket needs to address.

The leading Indian cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues gave off a very charming and playful vibe during her presence at the cricket event United in Triumph which was also a great surprise for the guests in Mumbai. Reliance Industry, the event sponsor, had the evening show where Jemimah went a step further into the spotlight not holding a bat but a microphone instead.

From Cover Drives to Chords: Jemimah Rodrigues Wins Hearts with Her Musical Magic

The Indian top-order batter who is famous for her fearless stroke play and contagious energy on the field completely mesmerized the audience with her soulful musical act. Jemimah sang a medley that included the uplifting song Aashayein from the film Iqbal, thereby immediately getting the audience to feel the same way that she did. Her charismatic presence on stage combined with her beautiful voice received loud and warm applause. Many people in the audience were impressed by her smooth and skillful change from a sports person to a singer.

ALSO SEE: WPL 2026 opening ceremony: Honey Singh & Jacqueline Fernandez to set stage on fire - Know Date, Time & Live Stream

Though fans have seen from time to time Jemimah's love for music through social media in the form of her singing covers or playing the guitar, this was one of her most noticeable public performances. The instant was a chance to see her off-field character in a new light showcasing a talent that is a perfect match for her fierce competitiveness.

Watch the video:

Indian Women's Team batting sensation Jemimah Rodrigues showed off her artistic side with a musical medley at the #UnitedinTriumph event. pic.twitter.com/U1e3Lq4wFi

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) January 7, 2026

Beyond the Pitch: Jemimah Rodrigues Strikes the Right Note with Music and Meaning

The performance was made even more important by the presence of several distinguished guests from business, sports, and entertainment. The United in Triumph kind of events are meant to showcase and celebrate the best, bring everyone together, and inspire; and Jemimah’s performance went right along with that.

Jemimah Rodrigues has been one of the mainstays of Indian women’s cricket, with the Indian women’s team often winning adventures in significant ICC tournaments and franchise leagues because of her contributions. Nevertheless, this musical performance reminded the fans that elite sportsmen and women have often other loves to pursue besides their sports.

Fans on the internet really connected with Jemimah’s performance and praised her for her versatility and authenticity. It was a soft reminder that there was a lovely girl supporting art, happiness, and self-expression behind the helmet and game face who was energizing fans on and off the pitch.

The Women’s Premier League 2026 is yet to begin, but the tournament has already delivered major talking points. Just days before the January 9 opener, several big names have withdrawn, forcing franchises into late reshuffles and opening the door for fresh talent to step into the spotlight.

Squad reshuffle as overseas stars miss WPL 2026

Australian all-rounders Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland have both pulled out of the season citing personal reasons. Perry’s withdrawal is a significant blow for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, given her towering influence in the league. Across 25 WPL matches, Perry has scored 972 runs at an extraordinary average of 64, often anchoring RCB’s innings in pressure situations.

RCB have named Indian all-rounder Sayali Satghare as her replacement at a reserve price of ₹30 lakh. While Satghare has limited WPL experience so far, this opportunity could prove career-defining as she looks to cement her place at the highest level.

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For Delhi Capitals, Sutherland’s exit leaves a noticeable gap in their all-round department. The franchise has responded by bringing in Australian leg-spinner Alana King for ₹60 lakh. King, who previously played for UP Warriorz, offers control, wicket-taking threat, and vast international exposure, strengthening Delhi’s spin arsenal.

Withdrawals open doors for new talent in WPL 2026

UP Warriorz have also been forced into a change after USA pacer Tara Norris opted out following her selection for the Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal. The franchise quickly roped in Australian all-rounder Charli Knott at ₹10 lakh, backing her domestic experience and versatility.

With the fourth edition of the Women's Premier League set to run until February 5 across Navi Mumbai and Vadodara, these changes highlight the league’s growing global pull. While fans will miss familiar superstars, WPL 2026 now promises new heroes, fresh narratives, and opportunities for emerging players to make their mark on the biggest stage.

India’s rising star Shafali Verma is edging closer to reclaiming the No.1 spot in the ICC Women’s T20I Batter Rankings after a stunning run of form in the ongoing home series against Sri Lanka. The 21-year-old has climbed four places to sixth in the latest rankings update, underlining her return to peak confidence and consistency.

Shafali Verma’s blistering run puts world No.1 ranking firmly within reach

Shafali’s surge has been powered by a dominant display at the top of the order. She has piled up 236 runs in the series so far, comfortably leading the charts and nearly doubling the tally of India’s next-best scorer. Back-to-back scores of 69*, 79* and 79 across the second, third and fourth T20Is have showcased her fearless strokeplay and improved shot selection, hallmarks of the form that once made her the world’s top-ranked T20I batter in 2020.

The young opener now sits just 60 rating points behind current No.1 Beth Mooney, making a return to the summit a realistic target if her purple patch continues. Importantly, Shafali has carried her momentum seamlessly from the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, where she played a decisive role in India’s historic title win, into the shortest format.

ALSO SEE: “Suryakumar Yadav used to message me…”- Bollywood actress gives bold statement ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

India bowlers surge in latest ICC rankings ahead of T20 World Cup push

India’s gains are not limited to batting. New-ball spearhead Renuka Singh Thakur has also enjoyed a major rise, jumping eight places to joint sixth in the T20I bowling rankings. Her match-winning spell of 4 for 21 in the third T20I proved pivotal in sealing the series and highlighted her value with the swinging new ball.

There have been further positives for the hosts, with left-arm spinner Shree Charani climbing 17 places after a consistent run of wickets, while all-rounder Deepti Sharma continues to hold onto the No.1 position among T20I bowlers.

With India leading the series 4–0 and one match still to play, the rankings rise reflects a side brimming with confidence as preparations begin in earnest for the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup.

The Indian Women’s cricket team was honoured with the Sports Performance of the Year award at the NDTV Indian of the Year Awards, a proud moment that capped off a historic year for women’s cricket in the country. The award ceremony was held in New Delhi, celebrating India’s landmark achievements across sport and society.

Representing the team on stage were captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Player of the Tournament Deepti Sharma, semifinal hero Jemimah Rodrigues, and head coach Amol Muzumdar, all of whom played key roles in India’s remarkable campaign. Their presence symbolised the collective effort behind a triumph that will be remembered as a turning point in Indian women’s cricket.

Historic World Cup triumph earns Indian women national recognition

India earned the recognition after clinching their maiden Women’s World Cup title in any format, a long-awaited breakthrough that ended years of near misses on the global stage. The team sealed history with a composed and confident victory over South Africa in the final, showcasing resilience, tactical discipline, and belief under pressure.

Watch the video:

BIGGEST MOMENT OF INDIAN SPORTS IN 2025 🇮🇳

Women's team winning the World Cup and now they won the NDTV Sports performance of the year. 🥇

It's great to see everyone celebrating Indian Women's Cricket. pic.twitter.com/bDIEqYHfhp

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 19, 2025

ALSO SEE: Watch: Hardik Pandya’s flying kiss to his girlfriend after 16-ball fifty in IND vs SA 5th T20I goes viral

Throughout the tournament, India delivered consistent performances across departments. Deepti Sharma emerged as one of the standout performers, contributing crucial runs and wickets to earn the Player of the Tournament honour. Jemimah Rodrigues played a defining role in the semifinal, producing a match-winning innings when it mattered most. Under Harmanpreet Kaur’s leadership, the side displayed maturity and fearlessness, while coach Amol Muzumdar’s guidance helped shape a balanced and mentally strong unit.

The NDTV award recognises more than just a trophy, it acknowledges a historic sporting achievement that has elevated the profile of women’s cricket in India. This World Cup victory has inspired millions of young girls to dream big and reinforced India’s growing strength in the women’s game.

As the team continues to build on this success, the award stands as a reminder of how perseverance, teamwork, and belief can turn long-standing dreams into reality.

Thailand created history in Bangkok, lifting the maiden ICC Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy after a tense three-wicket win over Scotland in the virtual final. In a fiercely competitive 10-team tournament, four sides - Thailand, Scotland, Netherlands and UAE - finished with five wins each, but the hosts triumphed thanks to their superior net run rate after a composed, disciplined campaign.

Putthawong’s brilliance and Chaiwai’s calm seal Thailand’s historic win

The final day began with high stakes as Scotland, who had dominated large parts of the tournament, elected to bat first against Thailand. Their decision quickly backfired. Thailand’s young left-arm spinner Thipatcha Putthawong, opening the bowling, produced a sensational spell of 4/17. Alongside her, leg-spinner Suleeporn Laomi tightened the screws with 3/11. The Scottish innings never recovered, folding for just 63 in 15.1 overs, with no batter reaching double figures.

Despite the modest chase, Scotland fought back brilliantly. Teenager Olivia Bell delivered a stunning spell of 5/8, reducing Thailand to 34/5 and momentarily flipping the game on its head. But Thai skipper Naruemol Chaiwai stood firm amidst the chaos. Her calm and crucial 17 off 21* anchored the innings, guiding Thailand inch by inch towards the historic win. With nerves running high, Onnicha Kamchomphu sealed the victory in style, launching a six to take Thailand to 65/7 in 11.4 overs, sparking celebrations across the home crowd.

ALSO SEE: Watch: Dewald Brevis' one-handed splendid catch dismisses Ruturaj Gaikwad during IND vs SA 1st ODI

Hosts shine brightest as emerging nations deliver a thrilling first edition

Earlier in the day, Netherlands capped off their campaign with a strong win over Uganda, while UAE stayed in contention with an emphatic victory over Namibia, driven by a superb 114-run opening stand between Esha Oza and Theertha Satish. Papua New Guinea also ended on a high, beating Tanzania by 20 runs.

Watch the video:

| 𝐈𝐂𝐂 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐇𝐘 |

🇹🇭 THAILAND WIN!

Thailand Women beat Scotland by 3 wickets in a tense finish! 💥👏

A gritty chase and a well-deserved victory at AIT!

💙❤️Proud moment for Thailand Cricket!#ICCWomensemergingnationstrophy pic.twitter.com/FLXjAyAcc0

— Cricket Thailand (@ThailandCricket) November 30, 2025

Thailand’s triumph was built on consistency, composure and breakout performances. Putthawong finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets, while Natthakan Chantham and Chaiwai played decisive roles with the bat. The inaugural edition showcased competitive cricket, emerging talent and dramatic finishes, and fittingly, it ended with the hosts scripting an unforgettable chapter in their cricketing journey.

Australian bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen has pulled out of the upcoming Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega-auction owing to a shoulder injury that has troubled her for several months. Franchises were formally informed of her withdrawal during the WPL’s pre-auction briefing held on Wednesday, November 26.

Jonassen has been a vital presence for the Delhi Capitals Women across the first three seasons of the league, delivering consistently with both ball and bat. Over her WPL career, she has collected 33 wickets, the most by any DC player, and earned five Player of the Match awards, second only to Harmanpreet Kaur. With more than 10 wickets in each of her first two seasons and nine in the third, alongside 295 runs at a strike rate of 138.49, her absence is a significant setback for the auction pool. She was listed at a base price of INR 30 lakh for the 2026 mega-auction.

Injuries and fitness updates shape team strategies for the WPL 2026 mega-auction

The WPL also notified franchises about the fitness concerns of three Indian players: batter Pratika Rawal, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia and seamer VJ Joshitha. Although all three remain in the auction list, they cannot be counted toward the mandatory 15-player squad requirement, and teams picking them will not be allowed replacements. Rawal has set a base price of INR 50 lakh, Bhatia at INR 30 lakh, and Joshitha at INR 10 lakh.

ALSO SEE: Watch: Ananya Bangar's batting practice in full swing ahead of WPL 2026 auction

India pacer Pooja Vastrakar, listed at a base price of INR 50 lakh, has been deemed not fully fit but will still take part in the auction. Meanwhile, promising quick Kashvee Gautam, priced at INR 30 lakh, has been declared fully fit and available.

The WPL 2026 mega-auction marks a significant milestone for the league, with 277 players registering for 73 available slots, 50 for Indian players and 23 for overseas signings. Each franchise can assemble a squad of up to 18 players, including a maximum of six overseas cricketers. The auction will open with a marquee set featuring global stars such as Alyssa Healy, Meg Lanning, Amelia Kerr, Laura Wolvaardt, and India’s own Deepti Sharma and Renuka Singh, before moving into the accelerated rounds.

Indian cricket sensation Smriti Mandhana is ready to celebrate a happy new innings in life by marrying her fiancé and filmmaker-music composer Palash Muchhal. Before the big day, the stylish left-hander enjoyed a cheerful haldi ceremony at her family home, attended by teammates, close friends and family.

It was a joyous celebration with laughter, music and all the magical pre-wedding feeling. Smriti was glowing in a stylish yellow outfit that was on theme with the ceremony. Her teammates Shafali Verma, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, Shreyanka Patil and Richa Ghosh joined in the celebrations as they energetically danced and celebrated their friend's happiness. Dhol played in the background as the girls took in every moment, applying turmeric paste, posing for pictures and dancing to the drums.

Ever since Palash Muchhal hosted an awkward proposal for Smriti a few weeks ago at the DY Patil Stadium- which just happens to be the stadium where India won the ICC Women's World Cup 2025- fans have been obsessed with the couple. The video of the proposal went viral online and fans couldn't help but rave about the cute couple.

ALSO SEE: WPL 2026 Auction: 277 Players Shortlisted for 73 Slots, Big Names in Marquee Set

Watch the video:

The #LadkiWaale can be seen having a gala time at @smriti_mandhana’s haldi pic.twitter.com/Fqej24ewN2

— Bangalore Times (@BangaloreTimes1) November 21, 2025

Teammates gather with Mandhana for a festive ceremony called haldi as the wedding comes closer

As India’s latest success story in cricketing, Smriti Mandhana led India as the top run-scorer at the 2025 Women’s World Cup. Mandhana scored 434 runs in 9 matches with her standout match scoring a century against New Zealand during a crucial group-stage match. Her calm knock of 45 runs in the final helped India capture their first-ever ICC title in women’s cricket and their first since the 2005-2017 finals where they were close but missed out.

With wedding festivities ongoing, fans and teammates together celebrate an icon of cricket, but also the next stage of her life off the field. With the warmth of love, music and family, Mandhana’s haldi ceremony painted the picture of a moment fitting for one of India’s sporting stars. 

Fresh off India’s historic Women’s World Cup triumph, star opener Smriti Mandhana is shining both on and off the field. The 29-year-old cricket icon is reportedly set to tie the knot with music composer and filmmaker Palash Muchhal on November 23, turning their union into one of the most anticipated celebrity weddings of the year.

The excitement surrounding the couple intensified after a recent viral photograph showed Palash proudly holding the World Cup trophy beside Mandhana. Fans called it the “perfect pre-wedding gift,” applauding Palash for celebrating his fiancée’s monumental achievement. Social media quickly turned into a celebration zone with messages cheering on their love story.

Adding to the buzz, Mandhana delighted fans with a playful video featuring her World Cup-winning teammates Jemimah Rodrigues, Radha Yadav, Arundhati Reddy and Shreyanka Patil. The cricketers danced together to the hit track Samjho Ho Hi Gaya, capturing the joy and camaraderie within the squad. The video ended with Mandhana revealing a sparkling engagement ring, an unmistakable sign that festivities have officially begun.

PM Narendra Modi sends heartfelt wishes as he congratulates music composer & Filmmaker Palash Muchhal and vice Captain of the Indian women's cricket team Smriti Mandhana on their wedding. ✨❤️ pic.twitter.com/TFXVca5teA

— Tellychakkar.com (@tellychakkar) November 20, 2025

ALSO SEE: Watch: Hardik Pandya gets engaged to Mahieka Sharma? Official video goes viral

Love, music and cricket come together as Smriti Mandhana prepares for her biggest off-field milestone

Palash Muchhal, 30, is a rising name in the Indian entertainment industry. Younger brother of noted playback singer Palak Muchhal, he has composed more than 40 music videos for major labels and directed the web series Rickshaw. He is also working on his film project Ardh, starring Rajpal Yadav and Rubina Dilaik. His career began early with a role in Ashutosh Gowariker’s Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey.

Meanwhile, Mandhana continues to scale new heights in world cricket. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain remains the most expensive signing in Women’s Premier League history and is celebrated globally for her consistency and leadership.

Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined in the celebrations, sending heartfelt wishes to the couple and their families. His congratulatory note highlighted their achievements and expressed hope for a joyful, inspiring future together.

With wedding anticipation soaring and celebrations already underway, fans eagerly await November 23, when cricket’s beloved cover-drive queen begins a new innings in life.