 |
| Nat Sciver-Brunt: A Trailblazer in Women's Cricket |
Nat Sciver-Brunt, a prominent figure in the England women's cricket team, achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the first English woman to be honored as Wisden’s leading cricketer in the world in 2024. This recognition stemmed from her outstanding performance in 2023, where she showcased exceptional skills, including hitting three ODI centuries in five innings and setting a new English record with a 66-ball hundred against Sri Lanka.
A Versatile All-Rounder
Nat Sciver-Brunt is renowned for her prowess as an all-rounder, contributing significantly with both bat and ball for England. Since her debut in 2013, she has been a consistent performer in all formats, amassing over 2500 ODI runs at an impressive average above 40. Her talent and impact were further highlighted when she secured a Women’s Premier League deal with the Mumbai Indians, making her the highest-paid female team athlete in the UK.
Breaking the Dominance
By winning the Wisden Leading Woman Cricketer in the World award, Nat Sciver-Brunt ended a streak of Australian dominance, with Australians clinching the title five times in the previous ten years. Her achievement not only signifies her individual excellence but also reflects the rising prominence of English women's cricket on the global stage.
Recognition and Prestige
The Wisden awards, which also recognized Harry Brook and Mark Wood among the cricketers of the year, are highly prestigious in the cricketing world. Pat Cummins of Australia claimed the men’s trophy for his leadership in winning the World Test Championship and 50-over World Cup, receiving the title from three-time winner Ben Stokes. The Wisden Leading Woman Cricketer in the World award is particularly esteemed, underscoring the historical and reputable nature of the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack.
Key Points for Exams
- The Wisden Leading Woman Cricketer in the World award was introduced in 2015 to recognize the best female cricketer based on their performances in the preceding calendar year.
- Previous winners include Meg Lanning (Australia, 2015), Suzie Bates (New Zealand, 2016), Ellyse Perry (Australia, 2017 and 2019), Smriti Mandhana (India, 2018), Beth Mooney (Australia, 2020), and Lizelle Lee (South Africa, 2021).
- Ellyse Perry of Australia is the only player to have won the award twice (2017 and 2019).