Exceptional Bowling by Women’s ODI Captains: The Top 5 Best Figures

In the world of Women’s One Day International (ODI) cricket, captains often carry the dual responsibility of leading their teams and performing under pressure. Some captains have not only led from the front but also delivered remarkable bowling performances that etched their names in history. Here, we spotlight the top five best bowling figures by women’s ODI captains, showcasing their exceptional skills and leadership on the field.

Kate Cross

Date: September 7, 2024
Match: England vs Ireland, Belfast

In a recent display of brilliance, Kate Cross led England to victory against Ireland with an impressive 6 for 30. Captaining England in Belfast, Cross’s performance was crucial in restricting Ireland to 210 runs. She began with a bang, dismissing Una Raymond-Hoey in her first over and later removing Ireland’s top scorer, Orla Prendergast, for 76. Cross’s ability to excel in the death overs further solidified her spell. Her all-round performance, including a crucial 38* with the bat, guided England to a comfortable win by four wickets with 15.1 overs to spare.

Mamatha Maben

Date: April 2004
Match: 2004 Asia Cup, Group Stage

Mamatha Maben’s spell against Sri Lanka in April 2004 remains unparalleled. Leading India with distinction, Maben delivered a masterclass in medium-pace bowling, claiming 6 wickets for just 10 runs. Her spell dismantled the Sri Lankan batting lineup, where she accounted for key wickets including the Lankan skipper Randika Galhenage and other top-order batswomen. India bowled out Sri Lanka for a mere 66 runs in 28.2 overs and secured a 10-wicket victory. Maben’s performance not only set a high benchmark for captains but also showcased her ability to turn a game with her strategic bowling.

Jhulan Goswami

Date: July 5, 2011
Match: Natwest Women’s Quadrangular Series, Southgate

Jhulan Goswami's performance against New Zealand during the 2011 NatWest Women’s Quadrangular Series is remembered for its brilliance, even though India did not win the match. In that game, Goswami delivered a stellar spell, taking 6 wickets for just 31 runs. She made significant breakthroughs, including dismissals of crucial New Zealand players like Frances Mackay and Sara McGlashan. Despite India's inability to chase down the target of 201 and falling short by 39 runs, Goswami's exceptional performance stood out as a testament to her skill and resilience as a leader.

Suthershini Sivanantham

Date: 2002
Match: ODI, Moors

Suthershini Sivanantham’s spell against Pakistan in 2002 remains one of the most economical and effective performances by a captain. On a challenging pitch, Sivanantham’s spin attack proved lethal as she claimed 5 wickets for just 2 runs. Her figures include seven maidens in her 9.3-over spell, highlighting her control and accuracy. With victims like Rabia Khan and Batool Fatima, Sivanantham’s bowling was instrumental in bundling Pakistan out for 78 and securing a significant victory for Sri Lanka.

Heather Knight

Date: 2016
Match: England vs Pakistan, Leicester

Heather Knight was in full captain Marvel mode in 2016. literally With bat and ball, she led from the front, delivering a performance so smooth. In Leicester, Knight delivered an impressive bowling spell, taking 5 wickets for 26 runs and helping dismiss Pakistan for 165. She claimed crucial wickets, including Iram Javed and Sana Mir, which played a key role in limiting Pakistan's total. Knight's impact extended beyond her bowling; she also scored an unbeaten 50, guiding England to chase down the target in just 31.5 overs.