In a historic move, the International Cricket Council andCommonwealth Games Federation confirmed the inclusion of women's T20 cricket atthe Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

As many as 8 international teams will compete in the 2022Commonwealth Games after a joint bid by the ICC and the England and WalesCricket Board (ECB).

This is the first time cricket has been included in theCommonwealth Games since 1998 in Kuala Lumpur when South Africa won the Gold inthe men's 50-over competition.

Manu Sawhney, Chief Executive of the International CricketCouncil said "This is a truly historic moment for women's cricket and forthe global cricket community, who were united in their support of thisbid,"

"Fast and exciting, the T20 format is the perfect fitfor the Commonwealth Games and offers another chance to showcase women'scricket on the global stage as part of our ambitious plans to accelerate thegrowth of the game, whilst inspiring the next generation of cricketers. All theplayers who are lucky enough to compete at Birmingham 2022 will be part of atruly memorable experience."

"Today is an historic day and we are delighted towelcome the sport of cricket back to the Commonwealth Games. We believe theCommonwealth Games will be a fantastic platform to showcase the exciting sportof women's T20 cricket and continue to help grow the game globally," saidCGF President Dame Louise Martin.