Windhoek

Zimbabwe and Namibia have secured their places in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier, which will be held in Nepal from January 12 to February 2, 2026. The tournament will decide the final four teams for the expanded 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England, which for the first time will feature 12 teams instead of 10.

This marks a historic achievement for both nations, as neither Zimbabwe nor Namibia has ever qualified for a women’s cricket World Cup in any format. Their success is being celebrated as a major step forward for women’s cricket in Africa.

Zimbabwe sealed qualification with a five-wicket victory over Uganda in the semi-final of the Africa Region Division One Qualifier. Chasing 107, they recovered from a shaky 86/4 to win with 14 balls to spare. In the other semi-final, Namibia defeated Tanzania by eight wickets, ensuring their progression. Both teams will now face each other in the regional final on September 6.

With these wins, Zimbabwe and Namibia join Bangladesh, Ireland, Thailand, Nepal, and the United States in the global qualifiers. The remaining three spots will be filled by two teams from Europe and one from East Asia-Pacific.

The qualifiers in Nepal will feature 10 teams, divided into two groups of five. The top six will move into the Super Six stage, followed by the final. New Zealand are the defending champions, having beaten South Africa in the 2024 final.