On 16 December 1997, during the Women’s Cricket World Cup in India, Australian cricket captain Belinda Jane Clark recorded the first-ever double century in One-Day International (ODI) history. She remained unbeaten on 229 runs off 155 balls against Denmark at the Middle Income Group Ground in Mumbai. This landmark achievement became the highest individual ODI score for over two decades and remains a defining moment in women’s cricket.
Setting the Stage
The 1997 Women’s World Cup, administered by the International Women’s Cricket Council, took place from 9 to 29 December across multiple Indian venues. Australia, led by Clark, progressed effortlessly through the group stages, leveraging their dominance to build momentum. Their match against Denmark was their fourth group match in Mumbai.
The Innings
Electing to bat first, Australia amassed a world-record total of 412 for 3. Clark’s monumental 229 not out included 22 fours and was crafted with a powerful yet disciplined approach. She shared century partnerships with Lisa Keightley (60) and Karen Rolton (64), each exceeding 100 runs, before Clark was finally dismissed—by England’s Campbell—with Australia well in control.
The Denmark innings collapsed to 49 all out, resulting in a record 363-run victory margin—the largest in World Cup history at that time.
Context and Significance
This performance preceded the famous 200* by Sachin Tendulkar in male ODI cricket by over a decade, setting the standard for high scoring in the format. ICC Hall of Famer Clark’s innings stood unmatched in women’s ODIs for years.
Australia went on to clinch their fourth Women’s World Cup title, defeating New Zealand by five wickets in the final at Eden Gardens. Clark contributed 52 runs in that match.
Record-Breaking Achievements
Clark’s 229* remains the highest individual score in women’s ODIs. She also set a World Cup record for most runs in a single calendar year with 970 runs in 1997.
In recognition, Clark was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame (2011) and the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame (2014), and honored as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2000.
Legacy
Clark’s double century represented a transformative moment in cricket, showcasing the potential of women’s performances on an international stage. It provided inspiration for future generations, and remains a cornerstone of her legacy as one of cricket’s greatest batters.
Match Details
Result: Australia won by 363 runs
Event: Hero Honda Women’s World Cup 1997
Date: 16 December 1997
Venue: Middle Income Group Ground, Bandra, Mumbai
Australia’s Innings: 412/3 (50 overs)
Clark’s Performance: 229* off 155 balls with 22 fours
Denmark’s Innings: 49 all out
