The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the highest-ever prize money of USD 13.88 million for the upcoming Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. The tournament will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka, running from September 30 to November 2, with the opening match featuring the two hosts.
Historic Rise in Prize Money
On Monday, the ICC confirmed that the prize pool has increased by 297 per cent compared to the $3.5 million offered at the last edition in New Zealand in 2022. The amount is also higher than the USD 10 million prize fund of the Men’s Cricket World Cup held in India two years ago. In its statement, the ICC said the rise reflects its focus on the development of women’s cricket. The decision follows its earlier announcement of equal pay for male and female players ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Winners to Get Record-Breaking Amount
The champions of the 13th Women’s World Cup, to be played across Guwahati, Indore, Navi Mumbai, and Visakhapatnam in India and Colombo in Sri Lanka, will collect USD 4.48 million. This marks a huge 239 per cent increase from the USD 1.32 million that Australia received after winning the 2022 title. In comparison, the winners of the last Men’s World Cup got USD 4 million. The team finishing at the 2nd spot will receive $2.24 million, much greater than the $600,000 that England received in the year 2023. Both losing semi-finalists will get $1.12 million each, up from $300,000 in 2022.
Rewards for Every Stage
For every group-stage win, teams will get $34,314. The sides ending the tournament in 5th and 6th place will be given $700,000 each, while the teams at 7th and 8th place will get $280,000 each. All teams are guaranteed a minimum of $250,000 for participating.
ICC Chairman’s Statement
ICC Chairman Jay Shah said this move shows the global body’s commitment to women’s cricket. “This decision is a landmark in cricket’s history. The fourfold rise in prize money highlights our dedication to the long-term future of the women’s game. Our message is clear: women choosing cricket as a profession should feel they will be treated equally to men,” he stated. He added that the step would help deliver a world-class tournament and inspire young players and fans worldwide. “Women’s cricket is progressing rapidly, and this announcement will only strengthen that momentum. We call on supporters, boards, partners, and media to help us give women’s cricket the recognition it truly deserves,” Shah concluded.
