The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has witnessed some of the most incredible cricketing moments since its inception in 2009. Every edition of the tournament has showcased extraordinary talent, but there are always a few standout performances that define each competition. The prestigious “Player of the Tournament” award is given to the player who has made the most significant impact throughout the tournament.
Over the years, this accolade has been awarded to players who led their teams to victory or stood out with their consistent performances, regardless of the tournament’s outcome. Let’s take a closer look at each player who has earned this honor in the history of the Women’s T20 World Cup.
Player of the Tournament winners in each edition of Women’s T20 World Cup
2009: Claire Taylor (England)
- Host(s): England
- Winner: England | Runner-up: New Zealand
The inaugural edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup took place in England in 2009. As hosts, England emerged as champions, defeating New Zealand in the final in a thrilling contest. Taylor played a crucial role in England’s success, with her consistent batting performances earning her the Player of the Tournament award. Taylor’s remarkable ability to anchor the innings and accumulate runs was a key factor in England’s journey to the title.
Taylor’s leadership with the bat was instrumental in putting pressure on the opposition, and her experience helped guide the team through challenging situations. England’s triumph in the first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup set the tone for the future of women’s cricket, with Taylor at the forefront of this historic win.
2010: Nicola Brown (New Zealand)
- Host(s): West Indies
- Winner: Australia | Runner-up: New Zealand
The second edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup was hosted by the West Indies in 2010. Australia claimed the title by defeating New Zealand in the final. Despite New Zealand falling short in the final, Brown was recognized as the Player of the Tournament for her all-around contributions.
Brown showcased her skills with both bat and ball, playing a pivotal role in New Zealand’s progression to the final. Her ability to perform under pressure, take crucial wickets, and provide valuable runs with the bat made her an invaluable asset for her team. Brown’s performances throughout the tournament highlighted her versatility and determination, qualities that made her stand out among her peers.
2012: Charlotte Edwards (England)
- Host(s): Sri Lanka
- Winner: Australia | Runner-up: England
The 2012 Women’s T20 World Cup was held in Sri Lanka, and Australia emerged victorious once again, this time defeating England in the final. However, it was England’s captain, Edwards, who was named Player of the Tournament. Edwards displayed immense leadership and batting prowess throughout the tournament.
Her contributions with the bat were significant in getting England to the final, and her ability to lead from the front was evident in every match. Edwards’ tactical acumen and experience helped her team navigate tough situations, and her individual brilliance shone throughout the tournament. Even though England fell short in the final, Edwards’ performances were a testament to her skill and leadership qualities. Edwards scored 172 runs in 5 innings at an average of 43.
2014: Anya Shrubsole (England)
- Host(s): Bangladesh
- Winner: Australia | Runner-up: England
Bangladesh hosted the Women’s T20 World Cup in 2014, where Australia continued their dominance by beating England in the final to lift the trophy. England’s Shrubsole was named Player of the Tournament for her exceptional performances with the ball. Shrubsole’s remarkable ability to pick up wickets at crucial junctures made her a standout performer throughout the competition. She picked 13 wickets in 6 innings, averaging 7.53.
She led the bowling attack with precision, consistently troubling the opposition batters. Her effectiveness in breaking partnerships and taking key wickets helped England reach the final. Despite the loss to Australia, Shrubsole’s performances were a major highlight of the tournament, showcasing her skill and determination as one of the premier bowlers in the women’s game.
Also READ: 5 Australian players to watch out for in the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024
2016: Stafanie Taylor (West Indies)
- Host(s): India
- Winner: West Indies | Runner-up: Australia
The 2016 edition, hosted by India, was a historic one as it saw the West Indies claim their first Women’s T20 World Cup title. West Indies defeated Australia in the final, and their captain, Stafanie, was named Player of the Tournament. Stafanie’s all-around brilliance was the driving force behind West Indies’ triumph. She led her team from the front with both bat and ball, contributing significantly in every match.
Stafanie’s leadership was inspirational, and her performances in key moments were crucial for the West Indies’ success. Her batting provided the stability and aggression needed, while her bowling added depth to the team’s attack. Stafanie’s contributions were instrumental in creating history for the West Indies, as they lifted their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup trophy.
2018: Alyssa Healy (Australia)
- Host(s): West Indies
- Winner: Australia | Runner-up: England
In 2018, the Women’s T20 World Cup returned to the West Indies, and Australia once again emerged victorious, defeating England in the final. Healy was the star of the tournament, earning the Player of the Tournament award for her explosive batting at the top of the order. Healy’s aggressive approach set the tone for Australia’s campaign, as she consistently provided fast starts that put the opposition under pressure. Healy was the top run getter with 225 runs in 5 innings at an impressive average of 56.25.
Her fearless batting style and ability to take the game away from the opposition in the powerplay overs made her one of the most dangerous batters in the tournament. Healy’s performances were instrumental in Australia’s journey to the title, and she played a major role in their dominance throughout the competition.
2020: Beth Mooney (Australia)
- Host(s): Australia
- Winner: Australia | Runner-up: India
The 2020 Women’s T20 World Cup was a landmark event, held in Australia, and the home team did not disappoint their fans, winning the tournament in front of a packed Melbourne Cricket Ground. Mooney was named Player of the Tournament for her remarkable batting performances throughout the competition.
Mooney’s ability to anchor the innings and score runs consistently was a major factor in Australia’s success, especially in high-pressure situations. Her unbeaten 78 in the final against India was a standout performance that helped Australia set a daunting target. Mooney’s calm demeanor and skillful stroke play made her a key player for Australia, and her contributions were critical to their success in securing yet another World Cup title. Mooney scored 259 runs from 6 innings, averaging 64.75.
2023: Ashleigh Gardner (Australia)
- Host(s): South Africa
- Winner: Australia | Runner-up: South Africa
The 2023 edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup was held in South Africa, and Australia once again showcased their dominance, defeating the hosts in the final. Gardner was awarded Player of the Tournament for her all-around contributions. Gardner’s impactful performances with both bat and ball were crucial for Australia throughout the tournament.
She played an important role in securing vital runs in the middle order and picking up key wickets when needed. Gardner’s versatility and ability to deliver in pressure situations made her an indispensable asset for the Australian team. Her performances were a testament to her talent and determination, and she played a vital role in helping Australia maintain their status as the most successful team in Women’s T20 World Cup history.
Notably, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup has witnessed numerous iconic performances from some of the finest cricketers in the women’s game. The Player of the Tournament winners have all made lasting impacts on the competition. Each of these players has showcased different skills and paved the way for more thrilling competitions in the future.
