BD, Ireland may feature in next Women's Championship cycle

The next cycle of the Women's Championship could feature ten teams, with Bangladesh and Ireland joining the current eight, reports ESPNcricinfo.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is exploring this possibility, with its new Global Strategy - set to be rolled out after the governing body's board meeting in October - featuring a big push for women's cricket.

The clamour for Bangladesh to become part of the Women's Championship has grown louder in recent months, particularly after they lifted their maiden Asia Cup title in June.

In that tournament, Bangladesh beat two Championship teams in Pakistan and India (twice, including in the final). The matter is still under discussion, and a clear picture is likely to emerge after the October meeting, but if this move does see light, it will come as a boost for Bangladesh and Ireland.