Women’s Cricket on the Rise Amid England’s Ashes Struggles

As men’s cricket continues to dominate global attention, a series of significant women’s tournaments are unfolding worldwide, showcasing the sport’s remarkable growth over the past decade.

Currently, Australia is hosting the Women’s Ashes, while the ICC Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup is underway in Malaysia. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s women’s team is in the West Indies for a limited-overs series.

Major Women’s Tournaments Underway

In addition to international series, domestic competitions are in full swing. Australia’s Women’s National Cricket League resumed after the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) final on December 1, with the season set to conclude on March 2. In New Zealand, the Super Smash tournament final is scheduled for February 1.

However, New Zealand captain Sophie Devine will take no further part in the competition, having announced an immediate break from cricket. As a result, she will also miss the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) in India, where she was set to represent Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

According to New Zealand Cricket, Devine’s break is to “prioritize her well-being” following professional advice, with her long-term future in the sport yet to be decided. The 35-year-old has played nearly 300 international matches, with her workload recently including the 2024 T20 World Cup, an ODI series against India, and a WBBL campaign for the Perth Scorchers.

England’s Ashes Woes and Fitness Concerns

England’s women’s team is enduring a tough Ashes series in Australia, having lost all three ODIs and all three T20Is, handing Australia an unassailable 12-0 lead before the one-off Test match began on January 30.

A clean sweep would be historic, further cementing Australia’s dominance. Since England won the first multi-format Ashes series in 2013, Australia has held the trophy for the past five consecutive series, with the 2017/18 and 2023 editions ending in draws.

The team’s poor performance has put coach Jon Lewis and captain Heather Knight under scrutiny. Former England spinner Alex Hartley, now a commentator, has publicly questioned the fitness levels of England’s players, suggesting it has contributed to their struggles against a physically superior Australian side.

Hartley’s comments have sparked tensions within the squad, with some players reportedly refusing to engage with her. While the England camp has denied fitness concerns, the issue has become a focal point for discussions about the team’s performance and future direction.

Women’s Cricket’s Rapid Expansion

Beyond the Ashes, the ICC Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup is further evidence of the sport’s global growth. Australia, South Africa, England, and India have reached the semifinals, while Nigeria narrowly missed out—highlighting the increasing competitiveness of emerging teams.

The sport’s rise has been a key achievement under Geoff Allardice’s tenure as ICC CEO, but his recent resignation marks a leadership shift. Under new ICC Chair Jay Shah, women’s cricket is poised for further expansion, with national boards playing a crucial role in developing talent.

Australia’s stable domestic structure has been a significant advantage. In contrast, England’s system has undergone three major changes since 2015, affecting player development. Salaries have also played a role—Australia’s recent five-year contract deal has increased player wages by two-thirds, providing financial security for top players.

With growing professionalism and expanding opportunities in franchise leagues, endorsements, and national contracts, women’s cricket is entering an exciting new phase. However, for teams like England, matching Australia’s fitness, structure, and consistency remains a key challenge.