ICC Women's T20 World Cup — Format, History, and Famous Finals
The ICC Women's T20 World Cup is cricket's fastest-growing major tournament. Learn its format, history, and the 2020 MCG final that broke records.
About the Women's T20 World Cup
The ICC Women's T20 World Cup is the premier T20 international tournament for women's cricket. First held in 2009, it has grown rapidly in profile and broadcast reach. The tournament takes place every two years, with 10 teams competing in a group stage followed by semi-finals and a final.
Australia's Dominance
Australia have dominated the Women's T20 World Cup, winning six of the first seven editions (2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023). Their only defeat in a final came in 2016 when West Indies won in dramatic fashion. Australia's fast bowling depth, explosive batting (led by Beth Mooney, Meg Lanning, Alyssa Healy), and experience at major tournaments make them consistently difficult to beat.
The 2020 MCG Final
The 2020 Women's T20 World Cup final between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on International Women's Day (March 8, 2020) attracted 86,174 spectators — the largest crowd ever for a women's sporting event in Australia and one of the largest for any women's sporting event globally. Australia won by 85 runs. The occasion was a landmark moment for women's cricket.
West Indies 2016 — The Upset
The 2016 final in Kolkata saw West Indies defeat Australia in a sensational finish. Needing 5 off the last ball, Deandra Dottin and Stafanie Taylor had already set the stage. Hayley Matthews hit the last ball for six — West Indies won by 8 wickets with a ball to spare in a thrilling super-over conclusion.
Frequently asked questions
How many teams play in the Women's T20 World Cup?
Ten teams compete in the main tournament — eight permanent members plus two qualifiers from regional qualifying events. The ten teams are split into two groups of five; the top two from each group advance to the semi-finals.
Who has scored the most runs in Women's T20 World Cups?
Beth Mooney (Australia) is among the highest run-scorers in the competition's history. Suzie Bates (New Zealand) and Stafanie Taylor (West Indies) also rank highly in cumulative T20 World Cup run tallies.