Asian Cricket Council Women's Premier Cup (Bahrain) 2026/27

The ACC Women's Premier Cup operates as the second tier of the Asian Cricket Council’s women’s structure. It functions as the primary qualification pathway for associate and emerging member nations seeking entry into the top-tier continental championship. Unlike the higher Asia Cup, which features full members such as India and Pakistan, this tournament focuses on development for nations including Bahrain, Bhutan, and Indonesia.

The competition underwent a significant format change from its inception. The inaugural 2014 edition was played in Thailand as a 40-over event under the name ACC Women's Premier Trophy. The current iteration is the ACC Women's T20 Premier Cup, carrying T20I status. Participation is by invitation to ACC member associations rather than through a formal promotion and relegation system. The 2026 edition in Malaysia included 18 teams, with newcomers Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines making their debut.

Thailand secured victory in the 2026 final, defeating the United Arab Emirates by six wickets. The UAE had won the previous year's title in Kuala Lumpur by beating Malaysia by 37 runs. Nepal claimed the 2022 edition. The tournament stands distinct from the ACC Women's Championship, which was historically a 50-over ODI competition largely superseded by the T20 pathway. The Premier Cup remains the key development tournament for associate nations aiming to gain WT20I status and Asia Cup qualification.

The event continues to expand its reach across the region. Recent editions have seen increasing participation from developing cricket nations. The structure allows teams to progress based on performance within a group stage leading to knockout rounds. The focus remains on providing competitive cricket for nations outside the elite tier. This approach supports the growth of the sport in countries where the game is still developing.