Jay Shah hails launch of ICC Women’s Cricket Week as a proud milestone

ICC Chairman Jay Shah has hailed the launch of the first-ever ICC Women’s Cricket Week as “a proud milestone” in the sport’s evolution, marking a new chapter in the global effort to celebrate and expand women’s cricket.

Set to run from October 16 to 22, the inaugural initiative will coincide with the ongoing ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India and aims to promote visibility, participation, and growth of the women’s game across all ICC Member nations.

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The ICC Women’s Cricket Week will be held annually, providing a platform for cricket boards and communities to engage in meaningful, locally relevant activities that spotlight women’s cricket at every level, from grassroots to elite.

“This year has already marked a turning point for women’s cricket, with record-breaking crowds, landmark performances, and an unmistakable sense of momentum building around the game,” Shah said.

“The launch of the ICC Women’s Cricket Week is another proud milestone, a celebration not just of the players on the world stage, but of every girl picking up a bat or ball, dreaming of what’s possible. It gives our Members, from Full to Associate, a meaningful opportunity to participate in the global narrative and shape the future of the women’s game in their own communities,” he added.

Endorsed earlier this year by both the ICC Women’s Cricket Committee and the ICC Chief Executives’ Committee, the initiative seeks to strengthen the visibility and impact of women’s cricket globally.

Several full member nations including England, South Africa and New Zealand have already announced plans to take part in the initiative through a variety of programs aimed at inspiring young cricketers and strengthening the women’s cricket ecosystem.

The England and Wales Cricket Board has launched promotional drives around recreational cricket and the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, while Cricket South Africa will host an event at Proteas wicketkeeper Karabo Meso’s former high school, featuring mini-cricket matches and a panel with past players. In New Zealand, a “Mini World Cup” for girls has already taken place, offering a glimpse of the campaign’s community-driven approach.

The associate members will also play their part by organising community watch parties aiming to bring fans together to experience the World Cup and inspire local engagement. Besides that, other initiatives like Female Coach and Teacher Education and Women’s Participation Events are also planned.