The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday announced an updated schedule for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place from October 3 to 20 in the (UAE) United Arab Emirates.

The tournament, originally slated for Bangladesh, was relocated to the UAE following a decision by the ICC Board during its August 20 meeting.

The ninth edition of this prestigious tournament will be hosted across two iconic venues, Dubai International Cricket Stadium and Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The event promises to inspire and engage a new wave of fans worldwide with 23 matches scheduled over 18 thrilling days.

Group A features six-time champions Australia, alongside India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Group B includes Bangladesh, England, South Africa, West Indies, and Scotland. Each team will play four group stage matches, with both venues set to host three exhilarating double-header days.

The tournament kicks off on October 3 in Sharjah, where Bangladesh will face Scotland in the opening match, followed by a clash between Pakistan and Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka. South Africa, last year’s runners-up, will begin their campaign against West Indies on October 4 in Dubai.

Defending champions Australia will launch their quest for another title on October 5 in Sharjah against Sri Lanka. One of the most anticipated matches, India versus Pakistan showdown, is scheduled for October 6 in Dubai.

The top two teams from each group will advance to semifinals, with the first semifinal set for October 17 in Dubai and the second on October 18 in Sharjah. If India qualifies, they will compete in first semifinal.

The grand finale is scheduled for October 20 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, where the new T20 World Cup champions will be crowned.

Scotland and Sri Lanka earned their spots in the tournament through ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier held in Abu Dhabi earlier this year. Prior to the main event, 10 warm-up matches will take place from September 28 to October 1 at Sevens Stadium and ICC Academy grounds in Dubai.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will retain its hosting rights and will collaborate with (ECB) Emirates Cricket Board to ensure smooth execution of the tournament.