Lord's to Host Historic First Women's Test Match in 2026
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has announced that Lord's Cricket Ground will host its inaugural women's Test match in 2026. This landmark event marks a significant milestone for the Home of Cricket, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Rachael Heyhoe Flint leading out the England Women's team at the ground.
The announcement came as part of the reveal of a packed schedule for both men's and women's cricket at Lord's in 2025. This historic Test match will be a testament to the growing popularity of women's cricket, which has witnessed record-breaking attendances at Lord's in recent years, including the highest ever crowd for a women's The Hundred match during this year's final.
Guy Lavender, Chief Executive & Secretary of MCC, expressed his enthusiasm for the groundbreaking event, stating: "We are thrilled that for the first time, Lord's will stage a women's Test match. Women's cricket is one of the fastest growing sports worldwide and the Club is proud to support this growth."
He highlighted the MCC's commitment to supporting women's and girls' cricket, citing their investment in a Head of Women's Cricket role in 2017 and the commemoration of the birthplace of the Women's Ashes with a plaque ceremony in the Harris Garden in 2023.
England Women have played white-ball matches at Lord's over the past three years, with another scheduled for 2024. However, the upcoming Test match will be the first time the iconic ground has hosted a women's Test match.
Claire Taylor, Chair of the MCC Cricket Committee and former England great, expressed her delight at the news, noting: "I played 15 Tests for England during my career, but none of those were at Lord's, so I'm delighted at this news and most importantly for the players who'll make history playing in this fixture in 2026."
She emphasised the significance of this event for young girls aspiring to play Test cricket at the Home of Cricket: "Young girls playing up and down the country can now aspire to play Test match cricket at the Home of Cricket. It is a clear demonstration that cricket is a game for all."
Richard Gould, ECB Chief Executive Officer, echoed the sentiment, stating: "I'm delighted we can confirm that India Women will take on England Women in the first ever women's Test match at Lord's. It will be a truly special occasion, and one of real significance for the game."
The historic match promises to be a captivating spectacle, showcasing the talent and skill of the women's game on the grand stage of Lord's. This event serves as a testament to the continuous growth and evolution of women's cricket, offering a powerful message of inclusivity and opportunity for all aspiring cricketers.
