The Year of the First Women’s ODI World Cup in Cricket History
The men’s ODI World Cup is famous worldwide, but few know that the first women’s ODI World Cup was played before the men’s version even started. Yes, women made history by organizing the very first One-Day International World Cup years earlier. Knowing when and where it happened tells us how women’s cricket grew into the sport we see today.
The Year of the First Women’s ODI World Cup
The first women’s ODI World Cup was played in 1973 in England. This tournament came two years before the men’s ODI World Cup of 1975.
This makes it a historic milestone in cricket because:
-
Women’s cricket set the example for the format.
-
The first edition gave international exposure to female cricketers.
-
It created a pathway for future tournaments.
Host and Format of the 1973 Women’s ODI World Cup
-
Host Country: England
-
Number of Teams: 7
-
Format: Round-robin (each team played against others once)
-
Duration: June to July 1973
Teams That Played in the First Women’s ODI World Cup
Seven teams participated:
-
England
-
Australia
-
New Zealand
-
Trinidad and Tobago
-
Jamaica
-
International XI (a combined team of players from different countries)
-
Young England (development side)
Winner of the First Women’s ODI World Cup
England won the first women’s ODI World Cup in 1973.
-
Captain: Rachael Heyhoe Flint
-
Runner-Up: Australia
This victory gave women’s cricket a strong foundation on the international stage.
Key Players and Performances in 1973
-
Enid Bakewell (England): Scored heavily and became a star.
-
Rachael Heyhoe Flint (England captain): Inspired the team to success.
-
Shirley Hodges (Australia): Known for her all-round performances.
These players set the standard for women’s cricket worldwide.
Interesting Facts About the First Women’s ODI World Cup
-
It was organized by Rachael Heyhoe Flint and businessman Jack Hayward, who funded the tournament.
-
It was held before the men’s World Cup.
-
The tournament lasted about a month with matches played across different venues in England.
-
The International XI team included players from five countries.
Why the 1973 Women’s ODI World Cup Matters
-
It proved women could organize and play competitive cricket internationally.
-
It inspired future tournaments and helped the sport grow.
-
It made history by being the first ODI World Cup ever played in cricket.
Related Term in Hindi:
Many fans ask: “Pehla Women’s ODI World Cup kab khela gaya tha?”
Answer: 1973 mein, England mein pehla Women’s ODI World Cup khela gaya tha.
FAQs
1. In what year was the first women’s ODI World Cup played?
1973, in England.
2. Who won the first women’s ODI World Cup?
England, under captain Rachael Heyhoe Flint.
3. How many teams played in 1973?
Seven teams took part.
4. Was the women’s ODI World Cup played before the men’s?
Yes, the women’s World Cup was held in 1973, two years before the men’s in 1975.
5. Who organized the first women’s World Cup?
Rachael Heyhoe Flint and Jack Hayward.
6. Which country hosted the first women’s ODI World Cup?
England.
7. Which team was the runner-up in 1973?
Australia finished second.
8. How many overs were played in that tournament?
Matches were played with 60 overs per side.
9. Why is the 1973 tournament important?
It was the first official ODI World Cup in cricket history.
10. Who was the standout player of the tournament?
Enid Bakewell was one of the top performers.
Conclusion
The first women’s ODI World Cup was played in 1973 in England, making it a landmark moment in cricket history. Seven teams took part, and England lifted the trophy under Rachael Heyhoe Flint. This tournament not only gave women’s cricket international recognition but also introduced the ODI World Cup format before men’s cricket.
For fans and learners of the game, knowing these details adds depth to cricket’s rich story. And for those wanting to simplify cricket numbers like strike rate or net run rate, free Cricket Calculators are always available to make learning easier.
