Harmanpreet, Perry among legends potentially playing last Women’s World Cup:Thirteenth edition kicks off today in Guwahati, next tournament scheduled in 2029

The Asia Cup 2025 ended grandly with India lifting the trophy after defeating Pakistan in the final. But the cricketing world is not resting yet, as attention quickly shifts to another major ICC tournament, the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025. This global event begins on September 30 and promises to be historic in more ways than one. India will host the World Cup, with the opening match scheduled between India and Sri Lanka in Guwahati at 3 PM. However, due to political reasons, all of Pakistan’s matches will be played in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The final of the tournament will take place on November 2 at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. While fans look forward to thrilling matches and close contests, this edition of the Women’s ODI World Cup also carries deep emotions. This World Cup may mark the last appearance for several legends of women’s cricket. From India’s Harmanpreet Kaur to Australia’s Ellyse Perry, this tournament could be a farewell stage for some of the biggest names in the sport. Australian icons nearing the end Australia, one of the strongest teams in women’s cricket history, may see four of its greats play their final World Cup. Skipper Alyssa Healy, star batter Beth Mooney, all-rounder Ellyse Perry, and experienced pacer Megan Schutt are all nearing the twilight of their international careers. Their absence in the future will mark the end of a golden generation for Australian women’s cricket. England’s experienced core England, too, have a few veterans who may not be part of the next ODI World Cup cycle. Captain Heather Knight, power-hitter Danni Wyatt-Hodge and reliable wicketkeeper Amy Jones could all be featuring in their last ICC mega event. Having carried England’s batting and leadership for years, their departure will create a big void in the side. Indian legends bowing out The host nation, India, may witness its own stars saying goodbye. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, who has been the face of Indian women’s cricket for over a decade, could be playing her last ODI World Cup. Alongside her, all-rounder Sneh Rana may also not feature in future editions. For Indian fans, this tournament will be extra emotional as they watch their captain take the field one final time on such a stage. Veterans from other nations New Zealand: The White Ferns might bid farewell to legends like Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates and pacer Lea Tahuhu. These three have been the backbone of New Zealand cricket for years. Pakistan: Arch-rivals Pakistan may lose their stalwarts Sidra Ameen, Sidra Nawaz, Aliyah Riaz and spinner Sadia Iqbal, making this a transitional phase for their side. South Africa: The Proteas could see experienced players like Tazmin Brits, Anneke Bosch, Marizanne Kapp and pacer Ayabonga Khaka playing their last World Cup. Bangladesh: The Bangla Tigresses might not have Fargana Hoque, Fahima Khatun, and Ritu Moni available in the next cycle. Sri Lanka: Co-host Sri Lanka too will miss some of their veterans. Captain Chamari Attapaththu, wicketkeeper Nilakshi de Silva, Anushka Sanjeewani, and pacer Udeshika Prabodhani could all be seen for the last time in ODI World Cup action. With so many legendary players possibly playing their final ICC event, the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 will be much more than just a battle for the trophy with an emotional farewell for several greats of the sport.