England Women Set for Historic First Test at Lord’s

By the Editorial Team · Friday, July 10, 2026

England’s women’s cricket team will play their inaugural Test match at Lord’s against India starting July 10, 2026, marking the first women’s Test at the venue since men’s cricket began there in 1884. The match also serves as a farewell for Tammy Beaumont, who is retiring after 17 years, and highlights England’s ongoing development and recognition in women’s red-ball cricket.

England’s women’s cricket team is set to make history as they prepare to play their first Test match at Lord’s, the sport’s most iconic venue, beginning on July 10, 2026. The four-day red-ball fixture against India marks a significant milestone, coming more than 140 years after the first men’s Test took place at the ground in 1884.

Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt described the occasion as a “huge honour and privilege,” acknowledging the mixed emotions she and the team feel after narrowly losing the Women’s T20 World Cup final at Lord’s just five days earlier to Australia. Despite the recent disappointment, Sciver-Brunt expressed pride in the team’s performance throughout the tournament and said the timing of the format change was fitting for a special week.

“It’s something we have hoped for,” Sciver-Brunt said. “We are pretty deserving of being here and we’ll relish the opportunity. We’re looking forward to doing something we dreamt of as kids growing up.” She noted that the sting of the T20 World Cup final defeat remains but emphasized the historic nature of the Test and its importance to women’s cricket.

This match will also serve as a farewell for Tammy Beaumont, who is retiring from international cricket after a distinguished career spanning 17 years. Beaumont, 35, will be making her 261st appearance for England across all formats. Sciver-Brunt praised Beaumont’s longevity and impact on the game, highlighting her consistent run-scoring and resilient mindset that has inspired teammates over the years.

In terms of squad changes, England will rest key players such as vice-captain Charlie Dean and all-rounders Freya Kemp and Dani Gibson, part of a workload management strategy during a busy summer. The Test will see Alice Capsey making her long-awaited red-ball debut after establishing herself in England’s white-ball teams. Additionally, 18-year-old spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman is in contention for her first appearance at this level.

The Test against India represents a landmark moment for women’s cricket at Lord’s and a chance for England to showcase their talent in the traditional format of the game on a stage that has long been central to cricket’s history.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.