CWI Marks 50 Years Since West Indies Women’s First International Cricket Match

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC): Cricket West Indies (CWI) has formally observed the 50-year milestone of a landmark event in Caribbean sport: the first international fixture played by the West Indies Women in 1976.

In a statement issued yesterday, CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow said the anniversary represents much more than a look back at the past.

“Today, we proudly commemorate the 50th anniversary of a defining moment in Caribbean cricket,” Dr Shallow said. “That historic encounter against Australia marked far more than the start of a series.; Iit signalled the arrival of West Indies women on the global stage and the formal beginning of a journey that continues to inspire generations.”

The pioneering team was captained by Louise Browne, who also became the first batter to face a delivery in that innings.

CWI said Browne and her colleagues stepped forward in an era when women had very few chances in the sport, showing conviction and resolve that helped establish a platform for women’s cricket across the region.

From that early period, West Indies Women went on to win World Cups and build a reputation as a side capable of competing with top teams worldwide.

“The progress of the West Indies Women’s game is a testament to the vision and determination of those trailblazers,” Dr Shallow added.

As the region reflects on the golden anniversary, CWI also restated its pledge to preserve and celebrate the contribution of those early players.

“Their story is one of breaking barriers, building pathways, and defining a proud and enduring chapter in West Indies cricket history,” the president concluded.