The ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup is the oldest world championship in women’s sport, even older than the men’s Cricket World Cup. First played in 1973 in England, it brings together the best women’s national teams to compete for the top honour in One Day International (ODI) cricket.
Over the decades, this event has expanded from a small sponsor-backed series into a global tournament supported by millions of fans. Between 1973 and 2025, the Women’s World Cup has witnessed unforgettable victories, heartbreaking losses, and the rise of fresh cricketing nations.
How It Began
The Women’s Cricket World Cup was first held in 1973, two years before the men’s version began in 1975. This idea came from a legendary English cricketer named Rachael Heyhoe Flint, who wanted to promote women’s cricket worldwide.
The very first edition featured seven teams and was played across England; it was funded by businessman Jack Hayward. The host nation won the inaugural trophy, setting the tone for future competitions.
Since then, the ICC Women’s World Cup has taken place roughly every four years, visiting different countries such as England, India, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. It is now one of the most respected tournaments in international cricket.
Complete List of Winners and Runners-up (1973-2025)
| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Host |
| 1973 | England | Australia | England |
| 1978 | Australia | England | India |
| 1982 | Australia | England | New Zealand |
| 1988 | Australia | England | Australia |
| 1993 | England | New Zealand | England |
| 1997 | Australia | New Zealand | India |
| 2000 | New Zealand | Australia | New Zealand |
| 2005 | Australia | India | South Africa |
| 2009 | England | New Zealand | Australia |
| 2013 | Australia | West Indies | India |
| 2017 | England | India | England |
| 2022 | Australia | England | New Zealand |
| 2025 | India | South Africa | India & Sri Lanka |
Also read: Complete List of Captains Who Won the ICC Women’s World Cup ft. Harmanpreet Kaur
Decade-by-Decade Highlights
1970s-1980s: The Early Years
The first few tournaments were dominated by England and Australia, the two oldest women’s cricketing nations. England lifted the first trophy in 1973, while Australia began their golden run soon after, winning in 1978, 1982, and 1988. These early editions helped shape the format of women’s ODI cricket and inspired younger generations to take up the sport.
1990s: The Competition Expands
The 1990s brought development and stronger contests in women’s cricket. England’s 1993 home win over New Zealand at the Lord’s was a defining moment. The Australian team claimed their title again in 1997 in India’s record 11-team event. As the broadcasts increased, the sport’s reach and global following grew rapidly.
2000s: The Rise of New Zealand and India
New Zealand won their first-ever World Cup in 2000, defeating Australia in a close final at Christchurch. It was New Zealand’s only Women’s World Cup title, the result was historic. The 2005 edition saw India reach their very first final, which was led by captain Mithali Raj, though they lost to a stronger Australian team. This marked India’s arrival as a serious force in women’s cricket.
2010s: England and Australia Lead Again
The 2010s saw England and Australia dominate the women’s game. England triumphed at home in 2009 and again in 2017, beating New Zealand and India in the finals. The 2017 Lord’s final broke viewership records, and Harmanpreet Kaur’s fabulous semi-final ton versus Australia turned her into a global sensation. At the same time, Australia stayed unmatched, winning in 2013 against the West Indies and strengthening their era of dominance.
2020s: A New Era and India’s Historic Win
Australia continued their dominating performance in 2022, by defeating England by 71 runs in New Zealand. Alyssa Healy’s brilliant 170 in the final is still memorized as one of the finest World Cup knocks. Then came 2025, a historic year for Indian women’s cricket.
For India, the 2025 year was nothing short of notable. India were hosting the tournament for the fourth time, the team finally claimed their maiden World Cup crown after defeating South Africa in the final. This victory was celebrated across the nation and it marked a turning point in sponsorship, support, and recognition for women’s cricket in India.
Most Successful Teams
- Australia – 7 titles (1978, 1982, 1988, 1997, 2005, 2013, 2022)
- England – 4 titles (1973, 1993, 2009, 2017)
- New Zealand – 1 title (2000)
- India – 1 title (2025)
Australia’s consistency has been unmatched. Their teams have combined professionalism, fitness, and strategy better than any other side. England remains close behind, while India and New Zealand have proved that women’s cricket is truly global.
Conclusion
From England’s very first victory in 1973 to India’s memorable triumph in 2025, the ICC Women’s World Cup reflects a journey of hard work, progress, and equality. What started as a small event for dedicated pioneers has grown into a global celebration of women’s sport.
As cricket continues to evolve, the tournament stands as proof that skill and determination go beyond gender, with every edition adding a new chapter to its inspiring story.
Written by Kinjal Walantra