Women’s cricket has witnessed a spectacular evolution over the decades—from trailblazing tours to record-breaking feats that have shaken the world of sports. Here’s a compelling rundown of the Top 10 Landmark Moments in Women’s Cricket, celebrating milestones that not only defined eras but also inspired generations.
The Dawn of Glory: 1973 Women’s ODI World Cup
Long before the men’s version took shape, the women led the charge. The inaugural Women’s Cricket World Cup was hosted by England from 20 June to 28 July 1973. It was the first tournament of its kind, pre-dating the men’s World Cup by two years. The hosts emerged victorious, setting the tone for international women’s cricket and carving a new chapter in the sport’s global narrative.
The First-Ever Women’s Test Series: England’s Pioneering Tour (1934–35)
Women’s cricket turned a significant page in 1934–35 when the English women’s team embarked on a historic tour of Australia and New Zealand. This tour introduced the world to the first-ever women’s Test matches—three against Australia and one against New Zealand. England dominated the series, clinching the Ashes and steamrolling New Zealand in a lopsided affair. It was the beginning of formalized, competitive women’s Test cricket.
New Zealand’s Explosive 400+ Milestone in ODIs
In January 1997, New Zealand rewrote the record books by becoming the first team—across both men’s and women’s cricket—to breach the 400-run mark in a One-Day International. Their blistering 455/5 against Pakistan left the opposition in tatters, bowled out for a mere 47. The 408-run win still stands tall as the largest victory margin in ODI history.
Belinda Clark’s Trailblazing Double Century in ODIs
Australian captain Belinda Clark scripted history in the 1997 Women’s World Cup when she hammered an unbeaten 229 against Denmark. This wasn’t just a record in women’s cricket—it was the first double century ever recorded in international One-Day cricket, male or female. A true pioneer’s performance, her innings remains one of the sport’s most iconic.
Mithali Raj’s Record-Breaking Sixth World Cup
Indian legend Mithali Raj became the first woman, and only the third cricketer overall, to appear in six World Cups. Her journey began in 2000 and spanned over two decades with appearances in the 2005, 2009, 2013, 2017, and 2022 editions. Her longevity, consistency, and leadership redefined dedication in cricket’s history.
Australia’s Sixth T20 World Cup Triumph
Australia stamped their dominance yet again in 2023, clinching their sixth Women’s T20 World Cup title by toppling South Africa in the final. Beth Mooney anchored the innings with a classy 74 not out, while the bowlers stifled the chase, sealing Australia’s legacy as the queens of T20 cricket.
Harmanpreet Kaur’s Semifinal Masterclass – 171 Not Out
Under the pressure of a rain-reduced 42-over semi-final against Australia in the 2017 World Cup, India’s Harmanpreet Kaur unleashed one of the greatest innings in tournament history. Her unbeaten 171 off 115 balls, adorned with 20 boundaries and 7 sixes, shattered records and powered India into the final. It remains the highest individual score in a World Cup knockout.
MCG’s Record Crowd of 86,174 Fans
The 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground witnessed an earth-shattering turnout—86,174 spectators—making it the largest crowd ever for a women’s cricket match. Australia decimated India by 85 runs, but the real winner was the game itself, as it reached unprecedented visibility and support.
Australia’s Historic Commonwealth Gold
Women’s cricket made its debut at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and Australia seized the moment. In a tightly-contested final against India, the Aussies triumphed by nine runs to clinch the first-ever gold medal in women’s cricket at the CWG, adding yet another feather to their cap.
Australia’s Record 26-Match ODI Streak
Australia’s unparalleled run of 26 consecutive ODI victories came to an end in September 2021 when India chased down a mammoth target in the third ODI of the bilateral series. It marked Australia’s first defeat since 2017, ending a streak that showcased their utter dominance and consistency in the format.
These ten moments are not just highlights—they’re landmarks that defined the landscape of women’s cricket and showed the world that this game belongs to everyone. The journey continues, but these milestones remain eternal.
