LONDON — Lord's Cricket Ground, the historic home of cricket, is set to host three England Test matches in the summer of 2026, including its first-ever women's Test and men's fixtures against New Zealand and Pakistan.
The announcement, made by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), marks a significant milestone for the sport, as Lord's prepares to welcome the England women's team for a Test match for the first time in its 211-year history. The men's team will also face New Zealand in June and Pakistan in July, reinforcing Lord's status as a premier venue for international cricket.
Historic First Women's Test at Lord's
The inclusion of a women's Test at Lord's in 2026 is a landmark moment for gender equality in cricket. While the venue has hosted women's One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20s, a five-day Test match represents a major step forward. The match is expected to draw significant attention, with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) emphasizing its commitment to growing the women's game.
Clare Connor, ECB Deputy Chief Executive and former England women's captain, expressed her excitement: "Hosting a women's Test at Lord's is a dream come true for generations of players and fans. It’s a powerful statement about the progress of women’s cricket and the importance of giving it the platform it deserves."
Key details about the women's Test:
- It will be part of a multi-format series against an opponent yet to be confirmed.
- The match is expected to be played in late June or early July.
- Ticket sales are anticipated to break records for a women's Test.
Men's Tests: New Zealand and Pakistan
The men's team will open their 2026 home summer with a Test against New Zealand at Lord's, followed by a clash with Pakistan later in the season. Both series are expected to be fiercely competitive, with New Zealand being the reigning World Test Championship holders and Pakistan boasting a strong away record.
Guy Lavender, Chief Executive of MCC, highlighted the significance of hosting these fixtures: "Lord's has always been a stage for unforgettable cricket, and we’re thrilled to welcome New Zealand and Pakistan for what promises to be two thrilling contests. The atmosphere here is unmatched, and we can’t wait to see full crowds supporting both teams."
New Zealand Test (June 2026)
England’s rivalry with New Zealand has grown in recent years, particularly after the dramatic 2019 World Cup final at Lord's. The 2026 Test will be a chance for England to avenge their 2021 series loss to the Black Caps. Key players to watch:
- Kane Williamson (NZ) – A modern great with a stellar record in England.
- Joe Root (ENG) – Likely to be nearing the end of his career but still a linchpin.
Pakistan Test (July 2026)
Pakistan’s last Test at Lord's in 2018 saw a thrilling victory for the visitors, and fans will hope for another close contest. The match will also be a homecoming for several Pakistan players who have excelled in county cricket. Former England captain Nasser Hussain noted: "Pakistan always brings flair to Lord's. Their bowlers love the slope, and their batters relish the big stage."
Preparations and Fan Experience
The MCC has confirmed that Lord's will undergo minor upgrades ahead of 2026, including improved facilities for women players and enhanced fan zones. The ground’s famous slope, a unique feature, will remain unchanged. Tickets are expected to go on sale in early 2025, with priority given to MCC members and county cricket clubs.
For those unable to attend, the matches will be broadcast globally, with the ECB prioritizing free-to-air coverage in the UK to maximize viewership. The 2026 season is seen as a crucial step in cricket’s post-pandemic recovery, with Lord's playing a central role.
Conclusion
The 2026 summer at Lord's promises to be one of the most memorable in recent history, blending tradition with progress. From the historic women's Test to high-stakes men's matches, the iconic venue will once again be at the heart of cricket’s narrative. As Lavender aptly put it: "Lord's isn’t just a ground; it’s where cricket’s past, present, and future collide."
With three Tests in a single summer, Lord's is set to reaffirm its status as the spiritual home of cricket, offering fans unforgettable moments and players the chance to etch their names into the sport’s rich history.