India women’s cricket team is set to embark on an exciting and challenging all-format tour of Australia early next year. Scheduled between February 15 and March 9, 2026, this tour promises intense competition as the two teams face off in three T20Is, three ODIs, and a one-off Test match. With matches spread across iconic venues in Australia, this series marks a significant step in the evolution of women’s cricket.
A tour of high stakes and historic venues
The series begins with the T20I leg on February 15 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), followed by matches at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on February 19 and Adelaide Oval on February 21. The ODI segment kicks off on February 24 at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field, continuing at Hobart’s Bellerive Oval on February 27, and concluding at Melbourne’s CitiPower Centre on March 1.
The highlight of the tour will undoubtedly be the one-off Test match, scheduled for March 6-9 at the newly redeveloped WACA Ground in Perth. This venue holds historical significance, having hosted memorable cricketing moments, including Australia’s dominant innings victory against South Africa in February 2024. The redevelopment of WACA into a boutique stadium with a capacity of 10,000 adds a modern touch to its legacy.
Strengthening women’s cricket
This tour comes under the new ICC Women’s Future Tours Program (FTP), running until 2029. The FTP aims to provide structured opportunities for women’s teams to compete across formats globally. The timing of this series reflects adjustments made by Cricket Australia to accommodate changes in the BCCI’s Women’s Premier League (WPL) schedule, which will shift to January from 2026 onwards.
Test cricket returns to WACA
The one-off Test at WACA is particularly significant as women’s Test matches are rare in modern cricket schedules. The choice of WACA underscores its importance as a venue steeped in history while undergoing transformation into a world-class facility. The redevelopment project includes upgraded lighting, expanded sports facilities, and a museum dedicated to cricketing heritage.
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Challenges for Team India
Facing Australia on their home turf is never easy. Known for their aggressive style and depth in both batting and bowling, the Australian women’s team has consistently been a dominant force in world cricket. For India, this tour will test their adaptability across formats and their ability to compete against one of the strongest teams in challenging conditions.
India has shown promise in recent years, with standout performances in ICC tournaments and the emergence of young talent complementing experienced players like Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana. However, success in Australia will require strategic planning, mental toughness, and exceptional execution.
Fixtures for India women’s tour of Australia 2026
T20I matches
- February 15: SCG, Sydney
- February 19: Manuka Oval, Canberra
- February 21: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
ODI matches
- February 24: Allan Border Field, Brisbane
- February 27: Bellerive Oval, Hobart
- March 1: CitiPower Centre, Melbourne
One-off Test match
- March 6-9: WACA Ground, Perth (Day/Night)
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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
