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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a landmark increase in prize money for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, set to take place from October 3 to October 20 in the United Arab Emirates (UE). This edition of the tournament will feature a record total prize pool of $$7,958,080, marking a significant 225% increase from the previous year’s fund of $2.45 million.
Historic prize money at the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
This tournament is particularly notable as it represents the first time in cricket history that women will receive equal prize money to their male counterparts in World Cup events. The ICC had set a target for achieving this equality by 2030 but has successfully reached it six years ahead of schedule, making cricket the first major team sport to implement such a policy.
Breakdown of prize money
The winners of the Women’s T20 World Cup will receive $2.34 million, which is more than double the $1 million awarded to Australia for winning the 2023 edition. The runners-up will take home $1.17 million, also a substantial increase from the $500,000 given to South Africa in the last tournament.
Additionally, the two losing semi-finalists will earn $675,000 each, up from $210,000 in 2023. Each of the ten participating teams is guaranteed at least $112,500, ensuring that all teams benefit from their participation.
Also READ: ICC announces warm-up fixtures for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
The Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will feature ten teams competing in 23 matches across venues in Dubai and Sharjah. The opening match will see Bangladesh face Scotland at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on October 3. A minor schedule adjustment has been made for October 5, with Australia playing Sri Lanka in the afternoon followed by Bangladesh taking on England in the evening.
ICC’s commitment to women’s cricket
The ICC’s decision to significantly increase prize money aligns with its broader strategy to prioritize women’s cricket and accelerate its growth by 2032. This initiative includes equalizing prize money for equivalent finishing positions at similar events and ensuring equal amounts for match victories.
The ICC’s commitment is further illustrated by comparing this year’s prize money with that of past tournaments. The increase reflects a growing recognition of women’s contributions to cricket and aims to attract more fans and sponsors to women’s events.
