Teams to watch and favorites to win


Published on: October 4, 2025

The countdown is almost over. From September 30 to November 2, 2025, the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup will take place across five venues in India and Sri Lanka. With eight of the world’s strongest national teams set to compete, the stage is set for a tournament full of drama, high skill and fierce rivalries. Each team traveled their own path to qualification, bringing unique strengths, star players and tactical approaches. Here’s a look at all the participating nations and what we can expect from them.

Australia

The defending champions arrive in India as the team to beat. Australia qualified directly thanks to their dominant ODI ranking and a legacy of consistent performances. They boast world-class talent across the board, with players like Alyssa Healy, Beth Mooney and Ellyse Perry expected to anchor their batting order. Their bowling, led by Megan Schutt and Alana King, is equally terrific.

What sets Australia apart is their depth, with each position covered by an experienced player. Their weakness, if any, could be adaptation to Indian pitches which favor spin more than pace. As highlighted by the odds available online for the event, the Australian national team is considered the favorite to win the title and confirm its champion status: betting on it therefore seems the most natural choice. To get a clearer idea of ​​how bookmakers rate his chances compared to other contenders, fans can check out the best betting sites on Oddschecker and choose the one that best suits their needs to track the odds throughout the tournament.

India

As co-hosts, India enters the competition with high expectations and a passionate fan base behind them. They automatically qualify as hosts and benefit from familiar conditions. The spotlight will be on Smriti Mandhana, who has become one of the most reliable openers in women’s cricket, and Harmanpreet Kaur, whose explosive hitting can transform matches.

England

England, the 2017 champions, have reserved their place in the ODI rankings and are among the best challengers. Their team includes Nat Sciver-Brunt, arguably the best all-rounder in the women’s game, and Sophie Ecclestone, the highest-ranked spinner in the world. Their batting is strong in the top order, although reliance on a few key players has hurt them at times.

South Africa

South Africa qualified directly and are known for their balance in batting and bowling. Laura Wolvaardt, their captain and star hitter, is the anchor at the top of the order, while Shabnim Ismail and Ayabonga Khaka provide pace and firepower.

New Zealand

The White Ferns have a proud history in women’s cricket but have struggled for consistency in recent years. They qualified through the ODI rankings and are accompanied by experienced players like Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr. Kerr, in particular, stood out with both bat and ball.

Pakistan

The Pakistan women’s team made steady progress and qualified via the rankings. They rely heavily on the calm leadership of Bismah Maroof and the overall skills of Nida Dar. Their bowling attack, often led by young quicks, can be dangerous in its day.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, as co-hosts, enter the tournament with the advantage of playing at home for part of the group stage. Their talisman, Chamari Athapaththu, remains one of the most destructive batters in world cricket.

Bangladesh

Bangladesh completes the eight qualified teams. While they may not be traditional favorites, they have built a reputation as strong competitors. Salma Khatun and Nigar Sultana Joty lead the team with both experience and composure.

In summary

The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 promises a fascinating mix of established giants and ambitious challengers. Australia, India and England resemble the strongest candidates on paperbut cricket has always thrived on unpredictability. With passionate crowds, spin-friendly pitches and growing global attention, this edition of the Women’s World Cup could throw up surprises at every turn and perhaps crown a new champion.





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