Introduction
There is more evidence, were it needed, of the growing popularity of women’s cricket in the fact that there have been record ticket sales for this summer’s Ashes series between the host nation England and Australia.
With still 100 days to go before the start of the series, already 55,000 tickets have been sold, which is more than for all of England’s games combined in 2022.
And, with test venues being used for the first time, players can look forward to playing in front of packed houses.
The female version of the Ashes comprises a multi-format series that begins with a one-off test. That will be followed by three ODIs, and then three T20Is.
The women’s Ashes
The history of women’s matches between England and Australia goes back a surprisingly long way, with the first test series – the first of its kind anywhere – taking place in 1934-1935.
However, it would not be until 1998, that it gained the name of the Ashes, when an autographed bat was burned before the first Test at Lord’s and some ashes were then placed inside a hollowed out replica of a wooden cricket ball to serve as a trophy.
There have been 23 series played in all, with 11 of them staged in Australia, and 12 in England.
However, it is the Australians who have the better head to head record. They have won nine series as opposed to six by the English with the other eight drawn.
Adoption of a points system
Initially the Ashes were dependent on the outcome of test matches only, but since 2013, a points system has been used instead. Now four points are awarded to the winner of a test match – they are shared in the event of a draw – and two to the winner of a limited overs’ game, irrespective of whether it is an ODI or T20I.
The last time they met
The last time they met in an Ashes series was in 2020-2021 when England travelled to Australia and were comprehensively beaten. They lost the one test, and all three ODIs, and one of the T20Is (the others were victims of the weather).
It was much the same story on Australia’s last visit to England in 2019, with England’s only victory coming in a T20I.
And, on Australia’s most recent victory to England last summer, they returned home with the Commonwealth Games gold medal, beating India in the final in Birmingham.
This year is different
This year organisers are hoping it will be different. There is the fact that he series will be played in conjunction with the men’s version of the Ashes for the first time, with no fixture clashes to distract the public attention.
And there is also the fact that all matches will take place at grounds that regularly stage international games, among them Lord’s and The Oval (the venue for this year’s WTC Final).
For women who, not so long ago, were playing just for the love of the game, the prospect of playing in front of a full house at Edgbaston or Taunton, is very appealing.
Australia remain the side to beat
Undoubtedly the Australians remain the side to beat.
They have won almost everything in the sport over the past few years, and have just successfully defended their title in the T20I World Cup in South Africa.
It is hoped that some of the nations pushing to close the gap – India, South Africa, New Zealand and England themselves – will benefit from the fact that some of their top players are now competing in the inaugural Indian women’s T20 franchise league. This should give them regular exposure to the pressure of playing in high profile games.
England will want to see if that translates to improved performances against the best in the world, and will be targeting several victories in front of their home fans.
If they can do so, then the hope is that even more girls and young women will be encouraged to take up the sport. No longer is this just a sport for dedicated amateurs either – some of those currently plying their trade in India are being very well remunerated for their skill and ability.
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