Saudi Arabia set to host professional women’s cricket league from 2026

Saudi Arabia is set to host its first-ever professional women's cricket tournament as FairBreak Global and the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) have announced a five-year partnership to stage the Women's World T20 Challenge from 2026.

The ICC-sanctioned event will feature six teams and players from more than 35 countries, marking a significant expansion of the Kingdom's presence on the global cricket map. The two-week tournament is expected to be held in September or October, shortly after The Hundred and before Australia's Women's Big Bash League (WBBL).

FairBreak, a private company founded in 2013 to promote gender equality in sport, previously organised the FairBreak Global Invitational T20 in Dubai and Hong Kong in 2022 and 2023. That competition attracted leading stars such as Chamari Athapaththu, Sophie Ecclestone, Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp. However, Indian players did not feature after the BCCI refused No-Objection Certificates, and it remains unclear whether they will participate in the new league.

Organisers say the partnership aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, with goals that include developing women's cricket talent through structured programmes, building public awareness and inspiring the next generation. FairBreak described the new league as a "significant step" for women's cricket worldwide, emphasising that it aims to create opportunities for players "irrespective of background".

Saudi Arabia has been increasing its cricket involvement in recent years, having hosted the IPL auction in Jeddah in 2024 and preparing to stage matches in future ILT20 seasons. The Women's World T20 Challenge is expected to secure a permanent slot in the international calendar.