The England 2026 Test cricket fixtures are out, with a shake-up in the traditional order. The Oval will host a Test match in June for the first time. England faces New Zealand there from June 17 to 21. Usually, The Oval hosts the final Test of the summer. However, it will reclaim that role during the Ashes in 2027.
Lord’s to Host First-Ever Women’s Test
Lord’s will make history by hosting its first women’s Test match in 2026. India Women will face England from July 10 to 13 in a four-day red-ball game. This will be India’s fourth England tour in six years and their first red-ball match at Lord’s. The move follows a strong crowd turnout at a recent women’s ODI. It also answers criticism from the ICEC report, which pointed out the lack of women’s Tests at the venue.
Full Fixture Breakdown and Venue Response
England Men will play six Tests in 2026—three against New Zealand in June and three against Pakistan in August and September. The summer will also feature white-ball matches against India and Sri Lanka. Lord’s gets three Tests, including the women’s match. Some counties, however, have expressed concern. They claim southern venues are receiving the best games. The ECB and MCC defended the schedule, citing high demand and venue readiness.
Women’s T20 World Cup and The Hundred
The women’s T20 World Cup will take place in June and July. India, New Zealand, and Ireland will all tour during this period. Originally planned as a T20 tri-series, it has now shifted to bilateral series. The Hundred will run from July 21 to August 16. For the first time, the teams will be privately owned franchises. New investors will be confirmed soon.
A Milestone Summer for English Cricket
The England 2026 Test cricket fixtures reflect a changing era in the sport. Fans can expect big matchups, iconic venues, and a focus on growing women’s cricket. It’s set to be a summer full of history and high-quality cricket action.
