Lord’s to Host First-Ever Women’s Test Match as England Face India in 2026

Lord’s Cricket Ground will host its first-ever women’s Test match in 2026 when England takes on India, marking a historic milestone for women’s cricket at the “home of cricket.”

The iconic London venue, which has previously been the stage for England women’s limited-overs matches over the past three seasons, and the site of the memorable 2017 World Cup final, has never before hosted a Test match in women’s cricket.

The format for the India Test, whether it will be a four or five-day contest, has not yet been confirmed.

“This is a clear demonstration that cricket is a game for all,” said Claire Taylor, chair of the Marylebone Cricket Club’s (MCC) cricket committee and former England player. “Young girls playing up and down the country can now aspire to play Test match cricket at the home of cricket.”

Richard Gould, chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), echoed the sentiment, calling the event a “truly special occasion” and one of “real significance for the game.”

This Test match will be England women’s first on home soil since their 2023 Ashes series, where they faced Australia in a five-day match at Trent Bridge. England, led by Heather Knight, played against India in Mumbai last year and are set to face South Africa in another Test this winter.

Additionally, England will take on Australia in a Test match during the 2025 Ashes tour at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), further highlighting the growing prominence of women’s Test cricket.

The announcement underscores the ongoing evolution and recognition of women’s cricket on the global stage, with Lord’s set to become an integral part of that narrative in 2026.