England will host and take part in the first ever Women's World Twenty20

Buy this photo

Taunton will host the women’s group matches at the ICC World Twenty20 in June 2009.

The semi-finals of the women’s ICC World Twenty20 will be held at the same ground, on the same day and same ticket as the men’s semi finals – at the Brit Oval and Trent Bridge – and the women’s final will be a precursor for the men’s final to be held at Lord’s on June 21, 2009.

“The ECB are extremely proud that we will host the first global team competition that will culminate with the semi-finals and final on the same day as the men’s events," said Steve Elworthy, the tournament director.

Clare Connor, ECB head of women’s cricket, added: “I know that Taunton is a special ground for the England women’s team and has also impressed so many of the touring sides that have played here.

“Now our challenge is to work with all parties – and we have already received Government support for this – to ensure that there is another positive legacy not only for women’s cricket but also women’s sport.”

Somerset chief executive Richard Gould said: “Hosting such a major event is a great coup for Taunton and Somerset. Women’s cricket is now a major player in global sport and we look forward to welcoming the world’s best teams in 2009, particularly as by then we will have completed the first tranche of our redevelopment and will be able to provide a world-class cricketing arena to go along with our world-class pitches.”

Women's event - key dates

Monday June 8 – Tuesday June 9 - Warm-up games
Thursday June 11 – Tuesday June 16 – Group Games
Thursday June 18 – Friday June 19 - Men’s and Women’s Semi Finals
Sunday June 21 - Men’s and Women’s Finals and Closing Ceremony