- 90 players from Full Member and Associate nations to compete in elite T20 event
- Tournament set for five years with ICC sanction sought via Saudi Cricket
FairBreak has announced a restructured tournament aimed at creating the “Wimbledon of cricket” for women, with 90 players from both Full Member and Associate nations participating in a multi-team T20 event starting in 2026. The tournament, in partnership with Saudi Arabia, has applied for ICC sanction and will be hosted in a single city and stadium over two weeks.
Players will live together in one hotel, encouraging cross-country interactions and mentorship opportunities with stars like Shabnim Ismail and Katherine Sciver-Brunt. FairBreak’s structure remains distinct, with squads selected by a panel rather than an auction, and player salaries across four bands ranging from US$5,000 to US$20,000.
The tournament aims to expand participation from Associate nations and accommodate Indian players by scheduling after the Women’s Hundred and before the WBBL. Past events have featured athletes from 35 countries, with the new format set to elevate the profile of women’s cricket globally.
FairBreak, founded in 2013 by former Australian captain Lisa Sthalekar, focuses on gender equality in cricket and continues to seek sponsorship to increase player remuneration. The 2026 edition is planned amid a busy international calendar, including the Women’s Asia Cup and bilateral tours, but organisers are confident of delivering a sustainable, high-profile tournament.
