As the much-anticipated 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India draws closer, the ICC Women’s Championship 2022-25 is reaching its thrilling conclusion. This three-year-long competition, featuring 10 teams battling across eight three-match ODI series, is the gateway for securing spots in women’s cricket’s most prestigious event. With only two automatic qualification spots still available, the stakes have never been higher.
The championship determines the five teams, in addition to hosts India, that will earn direct entry into the World Cup. The battle for qualification has intensified, with Australia emerging as champions and other teams vying for the remaining places.
ICC Women’s Championship 2022/23-25:
Australia
Australia has reaffirmed their dominance in women’s cricket by claiming their third consecutive ICC Women’s Championship title. A commanding 75-run victory over New Zealand at the Basin Reserve in Wellington sealed their campaign with 39 points from 24 matches—an unbeatable tally. This achievement underscores Australia’s unyielding supremacy in the format. Having won the previous two championship cycles (2014–2016 and 2017–2020), they entered this edition as favorites and lived up to their billing. Despite three defeats across 24 games, their victories over top teams like India and New Zealand cemented their top position and marked them as favorites for the upcoming World Cup.
England
England sits comfortably in second place with 32 points, trailing Australia by seven. A series victory over South Africa (2-1), where they recovered from a 0-1 deficit, showcased their resilience. With India having games in hand, England’s final standing is still uncertain, but they have done enough to remain one of the strongest teams heading into the World Cup. Their performances throughout this cycle demonstrate their ability to bounce back under pressure.
India
India, currently third on the table with 27 points, still has a chance to finish higher. A 2-1 series victory against New Zealand displayed their potential, though a series defeat to Australia exposed areas needing improvement. With five matches remaining—two against West Indies and three against Ireland—India can potentially reach 37 points and surpass England. However, as hosts, India’s qualification is guaranteed. These remaining games will allow Harmanpreet Kaur and her team to build momentum and fine-tune their preparations for the World Cup.
South Africa
South Africa has concluded their campaign with 25 points, securing a direct qualification spot. Their performances have been a mix of highs and lows, with a notable 3-0 series defeat to India earlier this year. In their final series, a strong start against England was undone by back-to-back losses, resulting in a 2-1 defeat. Despite these inconsistencies, South Africa will focus on addressing their weaknesses as they gear up for the World Cup.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, with 22 points, has managed to secure one of the automatic qualification spots. A surprising 2-1 series loss to Ireland in August jeopardized their campaign, but favorable results elsewhere—particularly Australia’s win over New Zealand—ensured their place in the top six. Although they have no matches left, Sri Lanka can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing they will be part of the World Cup, advancing directly for the first time since 2008.
New Zealand
The White Ferns sit in sixth place with 21 points, making their position precarious. A winless series against Australia and a 2-1 defeat to India have left them vulnerable. To retain their automatic qualification spot, New Zealand will rely on Bangladesh and West Indies faltering in their remaining matches. Otherwise, they will face the prospect of going through the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier in 2025.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh remains in contention for a top six finish, sitting seventh with 19 points. A 3-0 sweep of Ireland revitalized their campaign, and they now have three crucial matches against West Indies. Trailing New Zealand by just two points, Bangladesh’s fate lies in their hands. A strong showing against the Windies could secure a historic qualification and highlight their growth in women’s cricket.
Pakistan
Pakistan’s struggles have left them out of contention, with just 17 points and no matches remaining. A string of poor performances, including a 3-0 series loss to West Indies at home and a 2-0 defeat against England, has left them languishing near the bottom of the table. Pakistan will need to regroup and focus on the qualifiers for any chance of making it to the World Cup.
West Indies
Currently ninth with 14 points, West Indies face an uphill battle. Their remaining fixtures—two games against India and three against Bangladesh—are crucial. Winning all five matches is their only realistic path to automatic qualification. While their form has been inconsistent, the Windies still have a chance to pull off a remarkable turnaround and secure their place in the World Cup.
Ireland
Ireland’s debut campaign in the ICC Women’s Championship has been challenging, yielding just 8 points from 16 matches. Their upcoming series against India offers a chance to gain experience and end the campaign on a high note. While they won’t feature in the World Cup, Ireland can take valuable lessons from their first outing in this competitive environment.
As the ICC Women’s Championship enters its final stages, the race for automatic qualification spots is set to deliver high-stakes drama. With every run, wicket, and match carrying immense significance, teams will leave no stone unturned in their quest for cricketing glory. The stage is set for thrilling battles, ensuring the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup begins with all the momentum and excitement it deserves.
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