The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has long served as a launchpad for emerging stars, offering players the chance to make their mark on cricket’s biggest stage. The 10th edition of the tournament, set to begin in England and Wales on June 12, is unlikely to be any different.
With the competition expanding to 12 teams for the first time, more players than ever will get the opportunity to showcase their talent on the global stage and leave a lasting impression on fans around the world.
Here are five players set to make their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup appearances in 2026:
Kranti Gaud (India)
Around this time last year, Kranti Gaud was making her international debut in ODIs and T20Is as a relatively unknown prospect. Twelve months later, she arrives at the Women’s T20 World Cup with an ODI World Cup campaign already behind her and her reputation greatly enhanced. Likely to take the new ball for India, she will be tasked with providing early breakthroughs, a role she has embraced impressively over the past year.
Issy Wong (England)
Issy Wong has been named in England’s squad for the T20 World Cup for the first time. | Photo Credit: AP
Issy Wong has been named in England’s squad for the T20 World Cup for the first time. | Photo Credit: AP
It is easy to forget that, despite being a familiar face in the England setup for several years, Issy Wong is yet to play at a Women’s T20 World Cup. The fast bowler traveled as a reserve for the 2023 edition but did not get on the field, before missing the 2024 tournament altogether.
Now fit again and bowling at full pace, Wong heads into her first T20 World Cup with England hopeful that she can finally translate her immense potential onto the sport’s biggest stage and make a decisive impact on home soil.
Georgia Voll (Australia)
Georgia Voll has made an impressive start to life in Australian colours. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Georgia Voll has made an impressive start to life in Australian colours. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Georgia Voll has long been regarded as one of Australia’s brightest batting prospects, and her performances in limited T20I opportunities have only reinforced that reputation. With Alyssa Healy’s retirement creating an opening at the top of the order, Voll appears poised to step into a more prominent role. The Women’s T20 World Cup will offer the young batter her first chance to showcase her talent on the global stage and cement her place in Australia’s next generation.
Kayla Reyneke (South Africa)
Kayla Reyneke made her international debut earlier this year. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Kayla Reyneke made her international debut earlier this year. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
South Africa has often relied on a core group of players for its success, but 21-year-old Kayla Reyneke could add a new dimension to the side. The former U-19 captain is a skilful off-spinner and a powerful lower-order hitter, giving her genuine all-round value. Since making her international debut earlier this year, Reyneke has shown glimpses of her potential in appearances against New Zealand and India, and the Women’s T20 World Cup could provide the ideal stage for her breakthrough.
Sterre Kalis (Netherlands)
Sterre Kalis is one of the more experienced players in the Netherlands squad. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
Sterre Kalis is one of the more experienced players in the Netherlands squad. | Photo Credit: Getty Images
The Netherlands is making its Women’s T20 World Cup debut, and Sterre Kalis is likely to be central to any hopes of an upset. A top-order batsman who usually occupies the No. 4 spot, Kalis brings a wealth of experience despite being only 25. Alongside 64 international caps for the Netherlands, she has featured 21 times in The Hundred, giving her valuable experience of English conditions ahead of the tournament.
Published on Jun 08, 2026
