Age is just a number when passion burns bright, and the 64-year-old cricketer Joanna Child is the perfect embodiment of this mantra. In a remarkable feat, she has become the second-oldest debutant in T20I cricket, making her debut for Portugal, against Norway in the first T20I game of the series at Albergaria on April 7th. With this achievement, she has shattered conventional age barriers and inspired countless others to chase their dreams, regardless of their age.
In the opening match of the series, Child, a right-hand batter and right-arm medium pacer, faced eight deliveries and scored two runs, as Portugal secured a 16-run win. While her individual contribution was modest, it offered a glimpse into her enduring love for the game.
In the second match, she bowled four deliveries and conceded 11 runs, with Portugal losing by five wickets. Though her performances didn’t make headlines, her unwavering commitment to the sport and her team did. Portugal eventually clinched the series 2-1, and throughout, Child’s enthusiasm and dedication stood out as an uplifting reminder that passion knows no age.
Child was part of a dynamic Portuguese squad that reflected a promising blend of youth and experience. Sharing the field with her were rising stars like 15-year-old Ishreet Cheema, and 16-year-olds Mariam Waseem and Afsheen Ahmed – young talents who represent the future of Portuguese cricket.
This intergenerational lineup was more than just a team composition; it was a celebration of cricket’s enduring appeal, highlighting how love for the game transcends age and connects players across generations.
With her debut at the age of 64 years and 183 days, Joanna Child became the second-oldest player to debut in a Women’s T20 International. She joins a rare league of cricketers who have defied age norms to represent their countries on the international stage.
Topping the list is Gibraltar’s Sally Barton, who made her debut at an astounding 67 years and 206 days against Jersey Women in December 2024. Close behind Child is Philippa Jane Stahelin of Guernsey, who debuted at 63 years and 105 days against Norway, followed by Cayman’s Molly Ann Moore (62y 28d) and Marcia Moiten (58y 195d), both of whom featured against Mexico Women in September 2024.
Oldest Players in WT20Is:
Sally Barton (Gibraltar) – 67 years 206 days, vs Jersey
Joanna Child (Portugal) – 64 years 183 days, vs Norway
Philippa Jane Stahelin (Guernsey) – 63 years 105 days, vs Norway
Molly Ann Moore (Cayman) – 62 years 28 days, vs Mexico
Marcia Moiten (Cayman) – 58 years 195 days, vs Mexico
This remarkable group stands as a testament to the timeless spirit of cricket, where passion often eclipses age.
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