The iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London will host the first women’s Test in its history next year, with England Women taking on India Women. The same was verified on Thursday, July 24, when the English board announced their upcoming calendar for the home summer of 2026.
The one-off Test between the cricketing powerhouses is scheduled for July 10, 2026. The two teams will also meet off in three T20Is: Chelmsford on May 28, Bristol on May 30, and Taunton on June 2. Richard Gould, the Chief Executive Officer of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), issued a statement on the matter. Gould might also discuss the impending Women’s T20 World Cup and how it marked a watershed moment in women’s cricket.
“We’re happy that Lord’s will host an England Women’s Test match for the first time, ushering in a truly historic era for the women’s game. The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which will be hosted in England for the first time since 2009, will surely be the summer’s highlight. It’s a historic occasion for the women’s game, Nat Sciver-Brunt and her staff, and an incredible opportunity to encourage the next generation of players and fans,” Gould said in an ECB statement.
ECB wants fans to witness the absolute best.
The men’s T20I and ODI series between England and India will take place with the one-off women’s Test. The five 20-over matches will take place in Durham (July 1), Manchester (July 4), Nottingham (July 7), Bristol (July 9) and Southampton (July 11). The three ODIs are slated to begin on July 14 in Birmingham, followed by matches in Cardiff on July 16 and Lord’s on July 19.
“We are very thrilled to announce what promises to be a magnificent summer of international cricket in 2026. With world-class competition visiting renowned venues across the country, fans will have the opportunity to experience the pinnacle of the men’s and women’s games,” the statement continued.
The last time the two countries played Test cricket, India Women won by a massive 347 runs against England. Deepti Sharma won Player of the Match (67 & 5/7 — first inns; 20, 4/32 — second inns). The Indian team will try to return with the same performance.
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