Guwahati, August 16: The excitement for cricket is about to escalate in Guwahati, as the city has been officially designated to host five matches of the ICC Women’s World Cup, including the much-anticipated final, as announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday.

During the launch of two sports academies in North Guwahati, Sarma revealed that the city will not only host the final match but also several significant games of this esteemed tournament.

"We have received confirmation that Guwahati will be the venue for some matches, including the final. Naturally, cricket fans are thrilled about this news," the Chief Minister stated to reporters.

As per the ICC schedule, Guwahati is set to host four group matches, with the Indian women's team facing New Zealand at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on October 23.

The tournament will kick off in Guwahati with the match between England and Bangladesh on October 7, followed by another match featuring England against Sri Lanka on October 11. The group stage will conclude in the city on October 26, with England taking on New Zealand.

This announcement marks another highlight in Guwahati’s sports calendar. In November, cricket enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling encounter as World Test Championship winners South Africa face India.

The second Test of the two-match series is scheduled to take place at Barsapara from November 22 to 26.

Guwahati last hosted international cricket in November 2023, when Australia defeated India by five wickets in a T20 match.

With a series of high-profile matches lined up, Barsapara is poised to reaffirm its status as a premier cricketing venue, promising an exhilarating season for fans in Guwahati.