As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 looms on the horizon, all eyes are set on Group A, where a mix of legacy and ambition promises to make it the most competitive edition yet. The group stands as a battleground featuring five of the top eight teams in the Women’s T20I Team Rankings, each vying to secure a coveted semi-final spot.
Australia
Reigning supreme, Australia enters the fray as the top-ranked side with an impressive track record. Aiming for their fourth consecutive ICC Women’s T20 World Cup victory, they bring a formidable reputation, having claimed victory in their last 20 ICC global matches. Under the new leadership of Alyssa Healy, Australia is ready to maintain its stronghold. Healy, a vital asset with 440 T20I runs in the past 12 months, anticipates fierce competition, especially after recent setbacks against England, South Africa, and the West Indies.
Player to watch: Alana King
India
India’s journey in recent ICC Women’s T20 World Cups has been marked by consistent semi-final appearances, and they aim to rewrite history by clinching their first title. A powerful opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma will be crucial in their campaign. The ambient enthusiasm around women’s cricket in India, combined with a proficient spin attack, makes them a strong contender, particularly in UAE conditions. Their unexpected defeat to Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final adds an intriguing edge to their journey in Group A.
Player to watch: Jemimah Rodrigues
New Zealand
The New Zealand White Ferns, ranked fourth, have something to prove as they seek to break their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup knockout stage drought since 2016. Despite a string of recent losses to powerhouses England and Australia, their resolve remains unshaken. Veterans Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates, playing in their ninth World Cup, will be key figures as New Zealand endeavours to overturn their fortunes.
Player to watch: Amelia Kerr
Pakistan
Pakistan will aim to fight fire with fire in Group A as they seek to make the knockout stages of this tournament for the first time.Skipper Fatima Sana, at just 22, leads a team that blends youth with experience. Their recent performance boasts a record-breaking T20I total of 181 runs against South Africa, showcasing a liberated batting approach. With stalwarts like Nida Dar, Diana Baig, and Muneeba Ali, Pakistan aims to surprise and unsettle its formidable opponents.
Player to watch: Muneeba Ali
Sri Lanka
Ranked seventh, Sri Lanka steps into UAE buoyed by their inaugural Asia Cup victory. Chamari Athapaththu’s leadership has inspired remarkable feats, including historic wins against New Zealand, England, and South Africa. Their resounding triumph against India in the Asia Cup final, led by Harshitha Samarawickrama’s stellar knock, elevates their aspirations as they seek their first progression from the group stage in their ninth appearance.
Player to watch: Chamari Athapaththu