The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 kicked off with a bang as England dominated the opening match against Sri Lanka, scoring a tournament-high of 219/1. Danni Wyatt-Hodge led the charge with an unbeaten 105, setting the stage for a commanding victory. England’s strong performance was further highlighted by dismissing Sri Lanka for 132, securing an 87-run win.
England’s team, led by Nat Sciver-Brunt, faces the dual challenge of hosting the World Cup and maintaining their unbeaten record in home tournaments. Notably, England’s women’s team has never lost a World Cup they have hosted, be it ODI or T20I matches. On the other hand, Sri Lanka, captained by Chamari Athapaththu, is aiming for their first World Cup title after competing in all ten T20 World Cup editions since 2009.
In a remarkable display of batting prowess, England started steadily before accelerating to a 135-run opening partnership between Amy Jones and Wyatt-Hodge. Wyatt-Hodge’s unbeaten century, just days after becoming a mother, marked a historic moment in the tournament. Her exceptional innings, supported by Jones’ half-century, propelled England to a record-breaking total.
Despite a valiant effort by Sri Lanka’s Harshitha Samarawickrama and Nilakshika Silva, England’s bowlers, especially Freya Kemp, proved too strong. Kemp’s intelligent bowling variations and impressive figures of 4/22 stifled Sri Lanka’s chase, ensuring England’s victory. The match showcased England’s dominance and Sri Lanka’s resilience in the face of a formidable opponent.
