Cricket fans often ask: In what year was the first-ever women’s ODI World Cup played?
The answer may surprise many because women’s cricket made history even before the men’s ODI World Cup began. The first-ever women’s ODI World Cup was played in 1973, two years before the men’s edition in 1975.

This blog will explain the story behind the tournament, the teams, the format, the winners, and the lasting impact it created in cricket history.

In What Year Was the First-Ever Women’s ODI World Cup Played?

The first-ever women’s ODI World Cup was played in 1973 in England. It marked the beginning of international one-day cricket for women.

  • Host: England

  • Format: 60-over matches

  • Number of Teams: 7

  • Champion: England Women

This event set the stage for women’s cricket at a global level.

Background of the First Women’s ODI World Cup

  • The tournament was organized by the Women’s Cricket Association (WCA) in England.

  • It was sponsored by businessman Jack Hayward, who invested in women’s cricket development.

  • Matches were played across various grounds in England during the summer of 1973.

Teams in the 1973 Women’s ODI World Cup

The following 7 teams took part:

  1. England

  2. Australia

  3. New Zealand

  4. Trinidad and Tobago

  5. Jamaica

  6. International XI (mixed players from different countries)

  7. Young England (development squad for young players)

Format of the Tournament

  • Each team played in a round-robin format.

  • Matches were 60 overs per side, similar to the men’s ODIs at the time.

  • The team with the highest points at the end was declared champion.

Winner of the First-Ever Women’s ODI World Cup

  • England Women won the tournament.

  • They finished with the most points after the round-robin stage.

  • Rachael Heyhoe Flint, captain of England, lifted the trophy.

Notable Performances in 1973

  • Most Runs: Enid Bakewell (England) scored heavily and led from the front.

  • Most Wickets: Several English and Australian bowlers impressed with their consistency.

  • Memorable Moment: England defeating Australia in a key clash that helped them secure the title.

Why the 1973 Women’s World Cup Was Historic

  1. It was the first-ever World Cup in cricket, played before men’s cricket had one.

  2. It showcased women cricketers on a global platform.

  3. It laid the foundation for future women’s tournaments organized by the ICC.

Legacy of the First Women’s ODI World Cup

  • Inspired future stars like Belinda Clark, Mithali Raj, and Charlotte Edwards.

  • Encouraged countries to invest in women’s cricket.

  • Today, the Women’s ODI World Cup is a regular global event with worldwide coverage.

Timeline of Women’s ODI World Cups After 1973

  • 1973 (England): Winner – England

  • 1978 (India): Winner – Australia

  • 1982 (New Zealand): Winner – Australia

  • 1988 (Australia): Winner – Australia

  • 1993 (England): Winner – England

  • 1997 (India): Winner – Australia

  • 2000 (New Zealand): Winner – New Zealand

  • 2005 (South Africa): Winner – Australia

  • 2009 (Australia): Winner – England

  • 2013 (India): Winner – Australia

  • 2017 (England): Winner – England

  • 2022 (New Zealand): Winner – Australia

FAQs on the First-Ever Women’s ODI World Cup

1. In what year was the first-ever women’s ODI World Cup played?
It was played in 1973 in England.

2. Who won the first women’s ODI World Cup?
England Women won the tournament.

3. Was the women’s World Cup held before the men’s?
Yes, it was held in 1973, two years before the men’s World Cup in 1975.

4. How many teams played in the 1973 Women’s ODI World Cup?
Seven teams participated.

5. Who captained England in the first World Cup?
Rachael Heyhoe Flint.

6. What was the format of the matches?
Each game was 60 overs per side.

7. Which countries participated in the first women’s ODI World Cup?
England, Australia, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, International XI, and Young England.

8. Who was the top run scorer in 1973?
Enid Bakewell (England).

9. Did the ICC organize the first women’s World Cup?
No, it was organized by the Women’s Cricket Association.

10. How did the first World Cup impact women’s cricket?
It created a global platform and encouraged more nations to support women’s cricket.

Conclusion

The first-ever women’s ODI World Cup in 1973 was a historic moment for cricket. It not only crowned England as champions but also proved that women’s cricket deserved a global stage.

From those humble beginnings in 1973 to the grand tournaments we see today, women’s cricket has come a long way. The 1973 World Cup remains a milestone that changed the history of the sport.

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