The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced a new Future Tours Programme (FTP) for women’s cricket, setting up dedicated windows for major leagues (including WPL) and competitions while also expanding the ICC Women’s ODI Championship. These changes are designed to provide a structured calendar, enhance global visibility, and support the growth of women’s cricket.
New Window for WPL
Starting in 2026, the Women’s Premier League (WPL) will have a dedicated window from January to February. This shift ensures that the WPL does not overlap with other major women’s tournaments, such as the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) and The Hundred. The new schedule aims to provide a clear calendar for the WPL, allowing players and fans to plan accordingly.
Impact on Other Tournaments
The BCCI’s decision to move the WPL to an earlier slot has led to significant changes in Australia’s home summer schedule. Cricket Australia (CA) will now host its marquee home summer series from February to March to avoid any clash with the high-profile WPL, which attracts top Australian talent. As a result, the 2025 Women’s Ashes, starting with an ODI series on January 12, will be the last series held in January in Australia until 2029.
The Women's Premier League, The Hundred and Women's Big Bash League will all have an exclusive window in the 2025-29 FTP announced by the ICC.https://t.co/MISMpLJ1zF#WomensCricket #ICCFTP pic.twitter.com/hcPsaZYluj
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) November 5, 2024
ICC Women’s ODI Championship Expansion
The ICC Women’s ODI Championship has expanded to include 11 teams, with Zimbabwe being the latest entrant. This move follows the addition of Bangladesh and Ireland to the current cycle, which will conclude with the Women’s ODI World Cup in India in October 2025. With Zimbabwe’s inclusion, all ICC full members now have a place in the championship, except Afghanistan, which does not field a women’s team.
Introduction of T20 Champions Trophy
The ICC has also introduced a T20 Champions Trophy, which will take place in Sri Lanka in 2027. This tournament is part of a strategic plan to host at least one women’s global tournament each year. The addition of this tournament means there will be three major global events within a 14-month period, including the LA Olympics in August 2028 and the T20 World Cup in September 2028.
Also Read: IPL Auction Set to be Held in Riyadh at the End of November
 will have a dedicated window from January to February. This shift ensures that the WPL does not overlap with other major women's tournaments, such as the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) and The Hundred.){kind=link}