A tribute to the Bradman of women’s cricket
Minister for Sport Kate Ellis has paid tribute to one of Australia’s greatest cricketers, Betty Wilson, who has died aged 88.
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23 January 2010
Minister for Sport Kate Ellis has paid tribute to one of Australia’s greatest cricketers - Betty Wilson has died aged 88.
“I’m saddened to hear the news of Betty Wilson’s passing,” Ms Ellis said
“Betty got into the great game of cricket growing up in Collingwood in Victoria and played with the other children in the streets.
“Before too long Betty was known as ‘the female Bradman’,” she said.
“Australians don’t bestow cricket legend status lightly and Betty Wilson certainly lived up to the honour of her nickname - both on and off the field.”
In her debut Test against New Zealand in 1948, Betty Wilson scored 90 runs and took an amazing 10 wickets.
“Betty Wilson’s average in Test Cricket was 57.46 runs – Ricky Ponting’s current average is 55.67,” Ms Ellis said.
“Betty’s bowling average was 11.80 - Shane Warne’s was 25.41,” Ms Ellis said.
To honour her great contribution, the Australian U/21 National Womens’ Championship was renamed the Betty Wilson Shield. She was also honoured with many other awards including becoming the first female cricketer inducted into the Australian Sports Hall of Fame.
“Betty will be missed by her family, friends and the cricketing world, but the pioneering legacy she leaves to cricket and women’s sport will live on.”
“My thoughts are with her loved ones at this difficult time.”
For more information, please contact the Minister's office on (02) 6277 7350
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