Women’s cricket has come a long way over the years, evolving from a niche sport to a global phenomenon that captivates millions of fans worldwide. With each passing year, women’s cricket continues to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and inspire generations of young girls to pursue their dreams on the pitch. Through this article we look at ten such women cricketers who changed the sport and encouraged other young girls to pursue their interests in cricket.
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1. Belinda Clark (Australia)
Belinda Clark is considered one of the greatest female cricketers of all time. She played for the Australian women’s cricket team from 1991 to 2005 and was known for her exceptional batting skills. Clark became the first player, male or female, to hit double century in a One Day International (ODI) match.
2. Mithali Raj (India)
Mithali Raj was the former captain of the Indian women’s cricket team and was regarded as one of the finest batswomen in the history of the sport. She holds numerous records, including being the highest run-scorer in women’s ODIs. Raj’s consistency and leadership made a significant impact on women’s cricket in India. She is regarded one of the most respected players in the history of the sport.
3. Meg Lanning (Australia)
Meg Lanning is the Australian captain known for her aggressive batting style. She has achieved remarkable success as a captain and has led the Australian team to multiple victories including the 2015 World Cup tournament. Lanning holds several records, including being the fastest player to score 2000, 3000, and 4000 runs in women’s ODIs.
4. Charlotte Edwards (England)
Charlotte Edwards is the former English cricketer who captained the English women’s cricket team from 2005 to 2016. She played a crucial role in raising the profile of women’s cricket in England and was known for her consistency and leadership skills. She led her team to victory multiple times and was known to lead from the front.
5. Ellyse Perry (Australia)
Ellyse Perry is an Australian cricketer considered one of the best all-rounders in women’s cricket. She has consistently performed with both bat and ball and has a significant role in Australia’s success. Perry’s skills and versatility have made a profound impact on the sport. She has showcased exceptional skills with both bat and ball, making significant contributions to her team’s performances.
6. Stefanie Taylor (West Indies)
Stefanie Taylor is a West Indian cricketer known for her exceptional skills as an all-rounder. She has been a consistent performer for the West Indies women’s team and has played a significant role in their success. Taylor became the first cricketer, male or female, to make 1000 runs and take 100 wickets in T20I matches.
7. Jhulan Goswami (India)
Jhulan Goswami was an Indian fast bowler and former captain of the Indian national women’s cricket team. She has been a trailblazer for women’s cricket in India and holds the record for the most wickets in women’s ODIs. Goswami’s contributions have inspired a generation of young fast bowlers not only in the country but in other parts of the world as well.
8. Sarah Taylor (England)
Sarah Taylor is not only a well-known English wicketkeeper but is also a coach for the domestic team English Countryside Sussex in their men’s team for their next season. The London-born cricketer is a triple World Champion (WC 2009, 2017 and T20 WC 2009) and has represented England in 226 games across different formats. Her contribution behind the stumps have been instrumental in England’s success.
9. Suzie Bates (New Zealand)
Suzie Bates is among the first women from New Zealand to consider herself a full-time cricketer, having been awarded an inaugural female contract by New Zealand cricket board. She is also the former captain of the New Zealand cricket team and has been a key player for her country. Known for her consistency and technical prowess, she has set numerous records and has been a role model for young and aspiring female cricketers in New Zealand and beyond.
10. Lisa Sthalekar (Australia)
Lisa Sthalekar is an Australian cricket commentator and former cricketer and captain of the Australian women’s national team. She made her test debut against England in 2003 and played her last Test match in 2011 which was also against England. She also played as an all-rounder and was a vital part of the Australian women’s cricket team. Sthalekars’s contribution with both bat and ball helped redefine the role of an all-rounder in women’s cricket.
