As the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off in England and Wales on June 12, it marks a significant milestone for women’s cricket. Over the years, the sport has evolved remarkably, with increased professionalism, growing audiences, and expanded global reach. Amid this transformation, seven players are on the brink of a remarkable achievement, having featured in all ten editions of the Women’s T20 World Cup since its inception.
Leading the pack is India’s Harmanpreet Kaur, who began her World Cup journey in 2009 and now stands as a seasoned international player. Notably, she captained India to their first senior women’s ICC title at the 2025 ODI World Cup. Harmanpreet is also nearing a historic milestone, with just four more T20 International appearances needed to reach the 200-match mark, a first in men’s and women’s T20Is.
Among the veterans are New Zealand’s Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine, who have played pivotal roles in shaping the tournament over nearly two decades. Bates is closing in on a unique record, aiming to become the first player in men’s and women’s cricket to score 5,000 T20I runs. Meanwhile, Devine, a prominent all-rounder, is gearing up for her final T20 World Cup before retiring from the format.
Australia’s Ellyse Perry, known as one of the game’s finest all-rounders, is eyeing new records at the upcoming tournament. Perry holds the record for the most appearances in Women’s T20 World Cup history and is set to reach 50 T20 World Cup matches with just three more games. Additionally, she boasts six title-winning campaigns with the Australian team.
South Africa’s Marizanne Kapp, another stalwart in women’s cricket, is part of the elite group of players featuring in all ten editions of the tournament. Renowned for her all-round skills, Kapp recently made history as the leading wicket-taker in the Women’s Cricket World Cup. Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu, a key figure in her team’s lineup, and West Indies’ Stafanie Taylor, who led her side to a memorable title victory in 2016, complete the list of veterans set to make their mark at the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup.
These players, with careers spanning 17 years and numerous achievements, embody the growth and success of women’s cricket. As they gear up for another tournament, they bring with them a wealth of experience, records, and a deep connection to the evolution of the game, adding another chapter to the enduring story of women’s cricket.
