In the spring of 2011, I found myself in the heart of cricket's history, at the MCC library in Lord's, a place that should have been a treasure trove for women's cricket. Yet, to my surprise, the shelves were barren, offering only a few outdated books and no archives. This led me to embark on a journey to uncover the untold stories of women's cricket, a quest that would take me from the bustling streets of London to the quiet countryside of Lancashire. My goal was to write a book that would bring to light the struggles, triumphs, and pioneering spirit of the women who played the game before the modern era.
What I discovered was a hidden world of determination and resilience. I became a detective, tracking down former players and coaches, many of whom had been ridiculed for their passion for the sport. I interviewed them, piecing together their stories, and found a rich tapestry of experiences. From the financial struggles of the Women's Cricket Association (WCA) to the creative solutions they devised, like using a wok to burn a miniature bat for the first Women's Ashes trophy, each story was a testament to their unwavering commitment.
One of the most striking discoveries was the impact of figures like Betty Archdale, nicknamed 'Hitler' for her distinctive captaincy style, and Myrtle Maclagan, who looked down on the Australians for their working-class roots. These women, despite their flaws, were instrumental in shaping the game. Marjorie Pollard, the WCA founder, with her diehard attitude to correct dress, ensured that women played international cricket in skirts until 1997. These pioneers, though long gone, left an indelible mark on the sport.
My journey was not just about uncovering the past; it was about understanding the present. As I delved into the archives, I realized that the modern, fully professional women's game in England and Wales was built on the foundations laid by these early pioneers. Their stories, though often overlooked, are essential to our understanding of the sport's evolution. As we celebrate the riches of the present, it is only right that we remember those who came before, and their contributions to the game we love.
In writing this book, I wanted to ensure that these women's stories would live on. I hope that by sharing their experiences, we can inspire future generations of women to take up the sport and continue the legacy of these pioneering figures. The MCC's acquisition of the WCA archive in 2017 was a significant step in this direction, and I encourage researchers to explore it further. Perhaps, one day, we will see more books on women's cricket, and the stories of these remarkable women will be told more widely.
The Women in Whites: A History of Women's Cricket in England is now available for pre-order. It is a testament to the power of uncovering the past and celebrating the women who have shaped our sport. As we look forward to another England triumph at Lord's, let us not forget the pioneers who came before, and the legacy they left behind.
