ICC unveils star commentary panel for Women’s T20 World Cup 2026

LONDON: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a high-profile, female-led commentary panel for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, set to be staged across England and Wales, bringing together some of the most respected voices in world cricket.

The 33-match tournament, running from June 12 to July 5, will conclude with the grand final at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. Organisers say the commentary team has been carefully selected to deliver expert analysis, diverse perspectives, and global insight throughout the competition.

Among the standout names is former Pakistan captain Sana Mir, who joins a strong line-up of international cricket personalities. She is joined by Australia’s Mel Jones and Julia Price, both of whom have experience of winning major ICC tournaments during their playing careers.

West Indies World T20 champion Stacy-Ann King also features, adding further depth to the global representation within the panel.

England’s own former World Cup-winning players Isa Guha and Ebony Rainford-Brent will also be part of the commentary team, bringing firsthand experience from England’s historic 2009 Women’s T20 World Cup triumph.

The ICC has also confirmed a strong men’s commentary lineup featuring former Australia opener Matthew Hayden, former India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik, and West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite.

Veteran voices such as Nasser Hussain, Ian Bishop, and Ian Smith—famed for their commentary during the dramatic 2019 Men’s World Cup final at Lord’s—will also return to the broadcast box, ensuring continuity of elite analysis and storytelling.

Additional names including Mithali Raj, Tash Farrant, Anjum Chopra, Simon Doull, Veda Krishnamurthy, Isobel Joyce, and Katey Martin further strengthen an already world-class broadcast team.

The tournament opener will see hosts England take on Sri Lanka at Edgbaston on June 12, setting the stage for what is expected to be the biggest Women’s T20 World Cup yet.

Following the announcement, broadcaster Nasser Hussain praised the growing influence of women’s cricket, saying the players competing this summer will play a key role in shaping the future of the sport.

“The passion surrounding women’s cricket has never been stronger,” he said. “The players taking the field will inspire the next generation and push the game forward globally.”

With an elite commentary panel in place, the ICC is aiming to elevate the viewing experience and match the rising global popularity of women’s cricket.