Cricket has long been a sport that transcends borders, cultures, and generations. While men’s cricket often takes the spotlight, women’s cricket has steadily risen in prominence over the last five decades. At the heart of this rise is the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, the oldest and most prestigious international tournament for women’s cricket. Established in 1973, it predates even the men’s Cricket World Cup and has played a pivotal role in shaping the global landscape of women’s cricket.
From England’s triumph in the inaugural edition to Australia’s domination in recent years, the tournament has produced iconic moments, legendary players, and record-breaking performances. With the 2025 edition scheduled in India and Sri Lanka, it is the perfect time to revisit the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup Winners List, highlight its greatest champions, and preview what to expect in the future.
A Historical Overview of the Women’s ODI World Cup
The Women’s ODI World Cup was first played in 1973 in England, under the leadership of trailblazers like Rachael Heyhoe Flint and with financial support from Jack Hayward. Originally administered by the International Women’s Cricket Council (IWCC), it was later integrated under the International Cricket Council (ICC).
The tournament is held every four years in the One Day International (ODI) format, attracting the world’s top women cricketers. Over the decades, it has grown from a small competition into a major global sporting event, watched by millions and broadcast in multiple countries. The Women’s World Cup has not only promoted cricket but also empowered women athletes and inspired future generations.
ICC Women’s ODI World Cup Winners List (1973–2025)
| Edition | Year | Winner | Margin | Runner-up | Host |
| 1st | 1973 | England | Points | Australia | England |
| 2nd | 1978 | Australia | Points | England | India |
| 3rd | 1982 | Australia | 3 wickets | England | New Zealand |
| 4th | 1988 | Australia | 8 wickets | England | Australia |
| 5th | 1993 | England | 67 runs | New Zealand | England |
| 6th | 1997 | Australia | 5 wickets | New Zealand | India |
| 7th | 2000 | New Zealand | 4 runs | Australia | New Zealand |
| 8th | 2005 | Australia | 98 runs | India | South Africa |
| 9th | 2009 | England | 4 wickets | New Zealand | Australia |
| 10th | 2013 | Australia | 114 runs | West Indies | India |
| 11th | 2017 | England | 9 runs | India | England |
| 12th | 2022 | Australia | 71 runs | England | New Zealand |
| 13th | 2025 | TBD | TBD | TBD | India/Sri Lanka |
Key Insights:
- Australia – Most successful with 7 titles.
- England – Four titles, consistently strong competitors.
- New Zealand – One historic win in 2000.
Australia’s dominance is clear, but England and New Zealand have had periods of strong performances, creating fierce rivalries that continue to this day.
Legendary Captains and Star Players
The Women’s World Cup has always been a stage for extraordinary individual performances. Legendary cricketers have not only led their teams but also set benchmarks for excellence.
| Year | Winner | Captain | Player of Match (Final) | Player of Tournament |
| 2022 | Australia | Meg Lanning | Alyssa Healy | Alyssa Healy |
| 2017 | England | Heather Knight | Anya Shrubsole | Tammy Beaumont |
| 2013 | Australia | Jodie Fields | Jess Cameron | Suzie Bates |
| 2009 | England | Charlotte Edwards | Claire Taylor | Claire Taylor |
| 2005 | Australia | Belinda Clark | Karen Rolton | Karen Rolton |
| 2000 | New Zealand | Emily Drumm | Katrina Keenan | Debbie Hockley |
| 1997 | Australia | Belinda Clark | Belinda Clark | Debbie Hockley |
| 1993 | England | Karen Smithies | Clare Taylor | Purnima Rau |
| 1988 | Australia | Sharon Tredrea | Lyn Fullston | Carole Hodges |
| 1982 | Australia | Sharon Tredrea | Janette Brittin | N/A |
| 1978 | Australia | Margaret Jennings | N/A | N/A |
| 1973 | England | Rachael Heyhoe Flint | N/A | N/A |
Memorable Player Performances
- Alyssa Healy (2022): Masterclass innings of 170 in the final.
- Anya Shrubsole (2017): Bowling brilliance to secure England’s win.
- Karen Rolton (2005): Dominated with the bat throughout the tournament.
- Debbie Hockley (1997 & 2000): Consistent performer and one of the first global icons of women’s cricket.
These players, along with stars like Belinda Clark, Meg Lanning, Charlotte Edwards, and Mithali Raj, have helped raise the profile of women’s cricket worldwide.
Iconic Moments in Women’s World Cup History
- 1973 – England’s Victory: The inaugural World Cup set the stage for women’s international cricket.
- 2000 – New Zealand Triumph: White Ferns defeated Australia by just 4 runs, showcasing one of the closest finals in history.
- 2017 – India’s Semifinal Heroics: Harmanpreet Kaur’s 171 vs Australia* became a defining innings, inspiring millions.
- 2022 – Alyssa Healy’s Dominance: Her record-breaking 170 in the final helped Australia lift the trophy again, proving her status as a modern legend.
ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 – Preview
The 2025 edition will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, bringing the tournament back to South Asia after 12 years.
What to Expect:
- Teams: Top 8 teams from across the world.
- Format: Round-robin matches followed by semifinals and final.
- Defending Champion: Australia.
- Players to Watch: Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Alyssa Healy, Meg Lanning, Sophie Ecclestone, Amelia Kerr.
The subcontinent’s love for cricket ensures packed stadiums, electrifying atmospheres, and record viewership. Fans can expect high-octane matches and unforgettable performances.
Importance of the Women’s ODI World Cup
The Women’s World Cup has been crucial in shaping modern women’s cricket:
- Global Promotion: Raised awareness and interest in women’s cricket worldwide.
- Equal Opportunity: Created platforms for female athletes to compete professionally.
- Inspiration: Motivated young girls to pursue cricket professionally.
- Records & Legends: Showcased exceptional talent, leading to legends like Meg Lanning, Mithali Raj, and Alyssa Healy.
With media coverage and sponsorship increasing, the tournament is helping bridge the gap between men’s and women’s cricket.
Statistical Insights
- Most Titles: Australia – 7
- Most Finals Appearances: Australia & England – 10+ each
- Highest Individual Score in a Final: Alyssa Healy – 170 (2022)
- Lowest Margin of Victory: New Zealand’s 4-run win vs Australia (2000)
These statistics highlight not just dominance but also the competitiveness and unpredictability that make the Women’s World Cup exciting.
Conclusion
From England’s historic win in 1973 to Australia’s record-breaking 2022 triumph, the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup has continually elevated women’s cricket. Legendary players, thrilling finals, and inspiring performances have made it a tournament cherished by fans worldwide.
As the 2025 World Cup approaches, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the cricketing world eagerly awaits new legends, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable matches. Whether Australia maintains their dominance, England seeks revenge, or India and New Zealand rise to challenge, one thing is certain: the Women’s ODI World Cup will continue to inspire, entertain, and shape the future of women’s cricket.
Related Blog: Women’s World Cup 2025 Schedule
What do you think?
It is nice to know your opinion. Leave a comment.