The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup is the pinnacle of women’s One Day International (ODI) cricket. Since its inception in 1973, the tournament has showcased the evolution and growth of women’s cricket globally. With each edition, teams have battled for supremacy, producing memorable moments and legendary performances.
Evolution of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup
The Women’s Cricket World Cup has evolved significantly since its inception:
1973: First tournament held in England, predating the men’s World Cup by two years.
2005: ICC took over the administration, leading to more structured tournaments.
2025: Scheduled to be hosted in India, marking the country’s fourth time as host.
Highlights of ICC Women’s World Cup 1973-2022
1973 – England
Final: England vs. Australia
Result: England won by 92 runs
Highlight: The inaugural Women’s Cricket World Cup saw England clinch the title on home soil, setting the stage for future tournaments
1978 – India
Final: Australia vs. England
Result: Australia won by 8 wickets
Highlight: Australia secured their first World Cup title, showcasing their dominance in women’s cricket.
1982 – New Zealand
Final: Australia vs. England
Result: Australia won by 3 wickets
Highlight: A closely contested final where Australia edged past England to retain their championship.
1988 – Australia
Final: Australia vs. England
Result: Australia won by 8 wickets
Highlight: Australia continued their winning streak, dominating the tournament on home turf.
1993 – England
Final: England vs. New Zealand
Result: England won by 67 runs
Highlight: England reclaimed the title, with a strong performance throughout the tournament
1997 – India
Final: Australia vs. New Zealand
Result: Australia won by 5 wickets
Highlight: Australia’s consistent performance led them to another World Cup victory.
2000 – New Zealand
Final: New Zealand vs. Australia
Result: New Zealand won by 4 runs
Highlight: In a nail-biting finish, New Zealand clinched their first World Cup title.
2005 – South Africa
Final: Australia vs. India
Result: Australia won by 98 runs
Highlight: Australia’s dominance was evident as they secured another comprehensive victory
2009 – Australia
Final: England vs. New Zealand
Result: England won by 4 wickets
Highlight: England showcased resilience, chasing down the target to lift the trophy.
2013 – India
Final: Australia vs. West Indies
Result: Australia won by 114 runs
Highlight: Australia’s batting prowess was on display as they posted a massive total and defended it successfully.
2017 – England
Final: England vs. India
Result: England won by 9 runs
Highlight: England edged past India in a thrilling final to win their fourth World Cup title.
2022 – New Zealand
Final: Australia vs. England
Result: Australia won by 71 runs
Highlight: Australia reaffirmed their supremacy in women’s cricket with a dominant performance.
Key Records in ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup History
Most Titles: Australia – 7 titles
Most Runs (Overall): Debbie Hockley (New Zealand) – 1,501 runs
Most Wickets (Overall): Jhulan Goswami (India) – 43 wickets
Highest Individual Score in Final: Alyssa Healy (Australia) – 170 runs (2022 Final)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who has won the most Women’s Cricket World Cup titles?
A1: Australia holds the record with 7 titles.
Q2: When is the next Women’s Cricket World Cup scheduled?
A2: The next edition is scheduled for 29 September – 26 October 2025 in India.
Q3: Which player has scored the most runs in Women’s World Cup history?
A3: Debbie Hockley from New Zealand, with 1,501 runs.
Q4: Who has taken the most wickets in Women’s World Cup history?
A4: Jhulan Goswami from India, with 43 wickets.
Q5: Has India ever won the Women’s Cricket World Cup?
A5: No, India has reached the finals twice (2005 and 2017) but hasn’t clinched the title yet.
