Cricket World Cup 2025 Favorites: Top Teams to Watch

The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 is fast approaching, and excitement is already building among fans. Every Women’s World Cup brings unforgettable moments — historic centuries, game-changing spells, and stunning upsets — and the 2025 edition promises no less. As teams gear up for the marquee tournament, a handful of nations stand out as clear favorites, while others are ready to spring surprises. Let’s take a closer look at the contenders.

Host Nation and Venues

The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, making it a historic co-hosted edition of the tournament. Scheduled to take place from September 30 to November 2, the competition will unfold across five major venues. In India, matches will be played at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, Holkar Stadium in Indore, and ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Sri Lanka will also play a key role, with the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo hosting several important fixtures.

The schedule has been designed with political sensitivities in mind, as all of Pakistan’s matches will be staged in Colombo, including a potential semi-final or final should they progress. The other knockout matches are set to be split between Colombo and Bengaluru depending on results. With subcontinental conditions in play — including spin-friendly pitches, humid weather, and high-scoring surfaces — teams will need to carefully tailor their strategies. The electrifying crowds in India and Sri Lanka are expected to create an atmosphere that will make the Women’s World Cup 2025 a true festival of cricket.

India

India enters the tournament as one of the top contenders. With stalwarts like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur anchoring the batting, and a mix of young talent like Shafali Verma providing explosive starts, their batting order looks formidable. The bowling unit, spearheaded by Renuka Singh’s pace and supported by quality spinners, makes India a well-balanced side. Backed by passionate fan support and a hunger to claim their maiden World Cup title, India will be determined to overcome the heartbreaks of past campaigns. For fans, following India’s journey offers not just excitement on the field but also off it, with special promotions from betting platforms adding an interactive layer to the experience. For example, the Stake bonus drop code gives new users access to exclusive offers, allowing them to place wagers on match-winners, top run-scorers, or even live in-play markets — making every Indian fixture even more thrilling.

Australia

Australia remains the gold standard in women’s cricket. With multiple World Cup triumphs already under their belt, the Aussies know how to peak at the right moment. Their batting boasts depth and consistency with players like Alyssa Healy, Meg Lanning (if available), and Ellyse Perry, while their pace-spin combination has few equals. Australia’s unmatched winning culture and experience in handling high-pressure matches make them the team to beat once again in 2025.

England

The defending champions of the 2017 edition and finalists in 2022, England are always a force in women’s cricket. Their batting, led by the likes of Nat Sciver-Brunt and Heather Knight, can be destructive, while their bowling attack — featuring Katherine Sciver-Brunt and Sophie Ecclestone — gives them balance. England’s challenge will be adapting to varied conditions and maintaining consistency. If they find their rhythm early, they could be headed for another deep run.

South Africa

South Africa has quietly built a strong, competitive unit over the past few years. With Laura Wolvaardt leading the batting charge and Marizanne Kapp offering all-round brilliance, the Proteas can match any team on their day. Their pace bowling attack has real bite, and their fielding is among the sharpest in world cricket. The key for South Africa will be holding their nerve in crunch knockout matches, something they’ve struggled with in the past.

New Zealand

The White Ferns may not always be tagged as heavy favorites, but they thrive in World Cup scenarios. Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine provide experience and firepower, while their younger players bring fresh energy. Home-like support in certain venues and their ability to punch above their weight make them a dangerous opponent. If they start well, New Zealand could easily become one of the dark horses of 2025.

Pakistan

Pakistan’s women’s team has shown steady progress and is no longer to be underestimated. With Nida Dar’s all-round skills and rising talents in both batting and bowling, Pakistan has the tools to cause upsets. Their bowling, in particular, could trouble bigger teams, and if their batting shows consistency, Pakistan might surprise by reaching the knockouts.

Dark Horses: West Indies and Bangladesh

West Indies

The West Indies bring flair and unpredictability, powered by experienced names like Stafanie Taylor and Hayley Matthews. They have the ability to dominate on their day, particularly with explosive batting. If their bowlers can back up the batting firepower, the Caribbean side could make a strong statement in 2025.

Bangladesh

Bangladesh has emerged as a competitive side in recent years, especially in spin-friendly conditions. With disciplined bowling and a growing batting lineup, they are capable of frustrating bigger teams and pulling off shock results. They may not be top contenders yet, but underestimating them would be risky.

Wrap Up

The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, hosted by India, is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions in history. Traditional giants like Australia, India, and England head into the tournament as leading contenders, while South Africa, New Zealand, Pakistan, and dark horses like West Indies and Bangladesh promise to keep things exciting. With subcontinental venues, passionate crowds, and world-class talent on display, fans can expect thrilling contests, breakthrough performances, and perhaps even a new champion in 2025.