While covering Women’s Cricket, one word that is often linked with the Australian side is “domination”. The scene is quite similar to good old late-90s when Australian men were all over the game. No side has got three consecutive world cups to their name. As Ponting led the side, Aussies were ruthless on their field. It was commonly believed, among fans, that the Aussies have not lost until the last ball is bowled.
Meg Lanning seems to have taken a vow to relive the past. She has now equaled the record of Ponting as her side is now unbeaten from 21 outings. The last time Aussies lost a One-Day International, it was 2017.
THE UNSTOPPABLE!
Australian Women’s team completes 21st Straight Win in ODIs. #AUSvNZ #AUSWvNZW pic.twitter.com/B1q2GbU2Cm
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) October 7, 2020
Their previous loss had come against England. It is remarkable to note that they have, from October 2017, not lost a single One-day International game. One must note that these matches were played against quality International sides. The start of the winning streak came against India and then teams like England, Pakistan, and West Indies have shared the field with Australia as well. Australian side had to win against New Zealand to get the feat and the win was indeed a colossal one.
Aussies crushed New Zealand by a margin of 232 runs. While receiving the Rose Bowl series, Lanning said that “It’s a really special effort, especially over a long period of time. To win 21 on the trot is a great effort and something we’re really proud of”.
Skipper Meg Lanning talks about the historic win and what it means to everyone 💛 #AUSvNZ #AUSWvNZW pic.twitter.com/icaKCC0k52
— Female Cricket (@imfemalecricket) October 7, 2020
There were a total of nearly 300 spectators as per pandemic restrictions to witness the historic moment. Aussies will look to take their game in a similar direction consistently. There are eyes on them as they will enter the world cup, in New Zealand, as favorites. With the right mix of youth and experience, these wins can lift the morale of the side which becomes vital for tournaments like the world cup.
With the return of seasoned campaigners like Perry, things can go only up for women in yellow. Their next assignment is the Women’s Big Bash League respectively.
A student who enjoys studying cricket more than anything else, keen to learn the insights of the women’s game.
