In 1973, Lynne Thomas achieved a remarkable milestone as the first woman to score a One-Day International century for England. This significant achievement set the stage for women’s cricket to break barriers and pave the way for future generations. Fast forward to the present, where the landscape of women’s cricket has evolved significantly, with equal pay for England women’s domestic players and historic events such as the upcoming women’s Test match at Lord’s in 2026.
A Trailblazer’s Journey
Lynne Thomas, now 85, reminisces about her early days in cricket when female players received little to no coaching and had to fundraise to go on tours. Despite the challenges, Thomas and her fellow female cricketers played for the love of the game, driven by passion and dedication. She reflects on the hardships faced by many players who had to sacrifice their jobs to pursue their cricketing dreams, highlighting the resilience and determination of those who persevered in the face of adversity.
In 1973, during the women’s World Cup, Thomas made history by scoring the first ODI century for England with an impressive 134 not out. Paired with Enid Bakewell, the duo’s opening partnership of 246 stood unbroken for 25 years, a testament to their skill and camaraderie on the field. Thomas recalls the moment when Caroline Atkins and Sarah Taylor broke their record in 2008, a milestone that marked a new chapter in women’s cricket history.
From Wembley to Lord’s
Before making waves in cricket, Lynne Thomas was a Wales hockey international, showcasing her sporting prowess on the field. In 1961, she played her first game for Wales and later faced England at Wembley in a historic victory. Thomas’ diverse sporting career culminated in international triumphs at two iconic stadiums, Wembley and Lord’s, a rare achievement that solidified her place in sporting history.
Facing Challenges and Driving Change
While women’s cricket has made significant strides in recent years, challenges remain, particularly in areas such as pay parity and gender equality. The introduction of The Hundred tournament brought increased visibility to women’s cricket, but disparities in pay between male and female players underscore the ongoing struggle for equitable treatment. Heather Knight, England Women’s captain, emphasizes the importance of continued progress and collaboration to address these issues and create a more inclusive and fair playing field for all.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, the theme of ‘Accelerate Action’ serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to support and empower women in cricket and beyond. The stories of trailblazers like Lynne Thomas inspire us to push boundaries, challenge norms, and strive for a more equitable future for all athletes, regardless of gender.
