The countdown to the highly anticipated World Cup has begun, with just a month and a half remaining. On September 30, host nation India is scheduled to compete against co-host Sri Lanka. However, there are growing concerns regarding the match’s venue, Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, which has been declared ‘unsafe’ by state officials after a tragic stampede during a celebration for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, leading to the unfortunate loss of 11 lives and numerous injuries.
In light of these events, officials are now considering shifting the Women’s World Cup matches to Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, as the safety of fans and players is the top priority. Such decisions are a reminder of how vital secure environments are, especially when so many passionate cricket fans come together to celebrate the sport they love.
As we reflect on the development of women’s cricket, it’s interesting to take a walk down memory lane and explore the various Indian cities that have hosted previous editions of the Women’s ODI World Cup.
Women’s ODI World Cup 1978
The 1978 Women’s Cricket World Cup marked an important chapter in cricket history as it was the tournament’s second edition. Initially, South Africa was slated to be the host, but due to the ongoing apartheid sporting boycott, those plans were scrapped. India stepped up to host, making this the first time the nation showcased women’s cricket on such a grand stage.
The tournament was held at four venues across India, with iconic locations such as Eden Gardens in Calcutta and Keenan Stadium in Jamshedpur each hosting a match. Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium in Hyderabad became the site for two matches including the much-anticipated final between England and Australia, while Moin-ul-Haq Stadium in Patna also hosted two matches. Bringing the world’s attention to women’s cricket, this edition paved the way for greater recognition and support for female athletes in the sport.
Women’s ODI World Cup 1997
Fast forward to 1997, India celebrated the sixth edition of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, dubbed the Hero Honda Women’s World Cup. This tournament was notably remarkable, featuring a record 11 teams competing in 32 matches, spread across 25 cricket grounds in 21 cities.
Cities like Kolkata and Agra hosted their own share of excitement, with iconic venues like Feroz Shah Kotla and the Gymkhana Ground in Secunderabad joining in the action. The tournament offered a unique spectacle where each city contributed to showcasing the skills and tenacity of female cricketers. From the electric atmosphere in Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium to the vibrant crowd in Mohali, every match left an indelible bruise on fans’ hearts, reminding them of the thrill and passion of women’s cricket.
Women’s ODI World Cup 2013
By 2013, India was ready for the Women’s Cricket World Cup for the third time—the tenth edition of the tournament. Several venues across the country opened their gates, with the finals being held at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, where the West Indies faced off against Australia.
With teams displaying not just skill but enormous heart and spirit, the atmosphere was electric. It was a reminder to all women aspiring to make their mark that opportunities in sports could lead to extraordinary journeys—even more so with the crowds rallying behind them. The enthusiasm for the women’s game was evident, but it also served as a call to action to continue supporting and lifting women athletes to new heights.
Upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup 2025
As we look forward to the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India, there’s a vibrant mix of anticipation and uncertainty regarding some venues, particularly the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. While venues in Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, and Indore are set to welcome teams, the ongoing safety concerns may push officials to find a new home for the Bengaluru matches.
Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram has emerged as a strong candidate for this possible shift, highlighting the proactive measures taken to ensure player and fan safety. Every decision made in this context not only reflects the seriousness of the situation but also expresses a collective hope that women’s cricket can thrive and inspire future generations to embrace and support women in sports.
In reflecting on past editions of the Women’s ODI World Cup, we fully understand that these tournaments have played a pivotal role in elevating women’s cricket in India and beyond. They inform our current reality and ignite enthusiasm for the future of women in sports. Here’s to safe venues, thrilling matches, and encouraging crowds—because when women shine, they light the way for us all.
Image Source: Fan Code @ YouTube
