Recapping the Winners of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup

Since its inception in 2009, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup has established itself as a highly prestigious tournament in women’s cricket. Over the course of eight editions, which have been held in various locations around the globe, only three teams have emerged victorious, illustrating the competitive nature of the tournament.

The West Indies hold the distinction of being the only host nation to have organized the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup twice. However, it was not until the 2016 edition, held in India, that the West Indies women’s team clinched their maiden title. In that year, both the men’s and women’s West Indies teams celebrated T20 World Cup victories. The women’s team finished second in their group stage, proceeded to defeat New Zealand by six runs in the semi-final, and won against the then-defending champions Australia by eight wickets in the final. Hayley Matthews was lauded as the Player of the Match in the final, while captain Stafanie Taylor was named Player of the Tournament.

The inaugural ICC Women’s T20 World Cup was hosted by England in 2009. England, led by Charlotte Edwards, became the first team to win the tournament. After topping their group, they dispatched Australia by eight wickets in the semi-finals and comfortably beat New Zealand by six wickets in the final. Claire Taylor, with 199 runs in the tournament, was awarded Player of the Tournament honors.

Australia is the most successful team in the tournament’s history, having won six out of the eight editions. Their dominance began with their first title win in 2010 under the leadership of Alex Blackwell. The following two editions in 2012 and 2014, led by Jodie Fields and Meg Lanning respectively, saw Australia defending their title successfully. The 2014 tournament in Bangladesh marked Australia’s third consecutive title win, showcasing their stronghold on the competition.

In more recent years, Australia maintained their supremacy, winning titles in 2018, 2020, and 2023, all under Meg Lanning. The 2020 tournament in Australia saw them defeating India in the final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, making them the second nation to win the title at home. Player of the Tournament awards in these editions went to standout performers such as Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney.

Throughout the tournament’s history, the competition has remained fierce, with the skill level across nations elevating the standard of women’s cricket on the international stage. As of October 2024, Australia remains the benchmark of success, with their six titles unmatched.