With the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 fast approaching, teams are beginning to show signs of what they can bring to the tournament. The latest round of warm-up matches saw Sri Lanka, New Zealand, South Africa and Scotland register impressive victories. Still, it was Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu who stole the show.
This fearless captain's explosive batting display against Pakistan highlighted the form and confidence she is carrying into the World Cup. Elsewhere, New Zealand captain Amelia Kerr continued her excellent run with the bat, while South Africa's experienced duo of Laura Wolvaardt and Marizanne Kapp played key roles in a hard-fought win over Ireland.
Scotland also produced a strong all-round performance against the Netherlands.
While these matches do not count towards the tournament standings, they offered a glimpse of the players and teams looking ready to make a serious impact when the competition begins.
Athapaththu Leads Sri Lanka's Big Win
Pakistan made a solid start after being asked to bat first, with Muneeba Ali (36) and Gull Feroza (26) putting together a 60-run opening partnership. However, Sri Lanka fought back through Chethana Vimukthi, who claimed four wickets and helped reduce Pakistan to 105/6.
Captain Fatima Sana then played a valuable knock of 37 from 26 balls to guide Pakistan to 168/8. But Sri Lanka made the chase look easy. Athapaththu smashed 94 from just 58 deliveries, hitting nine fours and five sixes, while Vishmi Gunarathne remained unbeaten on 63. The pair dominated the chase as Sri Lanka reached the target with nine balls to spare, winning by nine wickets.
Kerr and Wolvaardt Continue Fine Form
New Zealand produced the most dominant victory of the day, defeating Bangladesh by 68 runs. Amelia Kerr remained unbeaten on 51 from 28 balls, while Suzie Bates (45) and Izzy Sharp (46) helped the White Ferns post a massive 193/3. Bangladesh never recovered from early setbacks, and Nensi Patel's brilliant figures of 4/18 sealed a comfortable win.
South Africa also enjoyed success against Ireland in a rain-shortened 18-over contest.
Laura Wolvaardt struck an entertaining 66 before Ireland's bowlers triggered a late collapse. In reply, Marizanne Kapp starred with the ball, taking 4/24 as Ireland were bowled out for 120, giving South Africa a 15-run victory.
Scotland Outplay Netherlands
Scotland rounded off the day's action with a convincing 58-run win over the Netherlands. After early setbacks, captain Kathryn Bryce, Darcey Carter and Priyanaz Chatterji helped Scotland reach 163/5.
The chase never got going for the Dutch side as 18-year-old Gabriella Fontenla struck twice early, including the wicket of captain Babette de Leede. Katherine Fraser then took three wickets to complete a strong bowling performance as the Netherlands were dismissed for 105.
The warm-up matches may not decide trophies, but they have already revealed several players in top form. If these performances are anything to go by, fans can expect an exciting ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.
