Credit: ICC
On this day, December 18, 1988: Australia Women win their third World Cup beating England Women. They had already claimed the two previous Cricket World Cup titles with victories over England and continued their dominance with their third crown. The feat was more remarkable considering they won it in front of their home fans in Melbourne and denied familiar foes England for the third time. It was attended by around 3,000 people, although the ground had a capacity at the time of over 90,000. Australia Women have won the Women’s World Cup seven times so far.
In the Final, England Women batted first and scored 127/7 in 60 overs. Jan Brittin’s unbeaten 46 helped England Women post 127-7 with Lyn Fullston the standout bowler with figures of 3-29. In reply, Australia Women chased down the target within 45 overs. They were in early trouble with 14/2 but then a huge partnership between Lindsay Reeler (59 no) and Denise Annetts (48 no) sealed the eight wicket victory. It was a dominant performance from Australian Women. Australia Women went to dominate further, winning another three world titles.
Lindsay Reeler was the leading run getter in that World Cup with 448 runs while Fullston was the highest wicket-taker with 16 wickets. New Zealand defeat Ireland in the third place play off. Netherlands were the only other team at the tournament, placed fifth and last after failing to win a single match.
India Women did not participate in the tournament as they could not secure sponsors. Both Ireland and the Netherlands were making their tournament debuts. The player of the tournament was English all-rounder Carole Hodges. She was the third highest run getter and second highest wicket-taker in this World Cup. This win showed what a dominant force Australia Women were in cricket and helped pave the way for future generations of Women cricketers.
