The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has cancelled the planned training camp for England Women in Abu Dhabi because of escalating instability across the Gulf region, forcing a late change to preparations ahead of this year’s global tournament.
The camp had been scheduled as a key part of England’s build up to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, with players and staff due to travel to the United Arab Emirates for warm weather training and focused tactical work. However, rising security concerns and travel disruption have led the board to rule out the venue entirely.
In a statement confirming the decision, an ECB spokesperson said, “We have ruled out the possibility of England Women’s T20 World Cup camp taking place in Abu Dhabi given the instability across the Gulf. Over the weekend we started work on alternative options that will enable England Women to achieve the same outcomes, and we’ll keep you informed as soon as we finalize a new plan.”
The development comes at a crucial stage in England’s preparation cycle. The squad have not played a competitive match since their semifinal exit at the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, leaving the management keen to maximize training opportunities and reestablish rhythm ahead of the shorter format tournament. The Abu Dhabi camp was designed to provide uninterrupted preparation time, allow new combinations to settle and help players transition fully into T20 mode after a lengthy break from international action.
While the ECB has not detailed specific threats, the wider regional situation has created uncertainty around airspace, logistics and the movement of international teams. Player welfare and staff safety were described as central to the decision-making process. The board acted over the weekend after monitoring developments and consulting with security advisers.
For head coach Charlotte Edwards and senior players, the immediate task is to ensure that momentum is not lost. England are in a period of transition following the ODI World Cup and the coming months are viewed internally as vital to refining their T20 identity. The camp in Abu Dhabi had been expected to replicate tournament style conditions and provide extended net sessions, scenario training and fitness blocks in a controlled environment.
The cancellation also follows the ECB’s decision to call off the remainder of the England Lions tour in the region, underlining the scale of concern. However, officials have stressed that preparations for the women’s side will continue without compromise. Alternative venues are being assessed, with options understood to include both domestic bases and other overseas locations that can offer similar climate and facilities.
Further details on the revised schedule are expected in the coming days. For now, the focus remains on adapting quickly to changing circumstances while safeguarding the squad.
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