Australia start their ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a Group 1 clash against South Africa at Old Trafford in Manchester. The six-time champions arrive as the world’s top-ranked T20I side and remain one of the strongest teams in women’s cricket.

This tournament also marks the beginning of a new World Cup chapter under captain Sophie Molineux. Australia have built a reputation for consistency and success in global events, and expectations will once again be high. Their opening game comes against a South African side that has steadily grown into a major force in women’s cricket over the last few years.

While Australia start as favourites based on rankings and history, World Cups have often shown that reputations alone do not win matches. A strong start could set the tone for Australia’s campaign, while South Africa will be eager to make an early statement against the most successful team in the history of the tournament.