Annabel Sutherland of Australia has etched her name in cricket history after becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Not only did she achieve this remarkable feat on January 19, 2024, but she also secured the prestigious Belinda Clark Medal just days later, marking her ascent as one of the top players in women's cricket.
Sutherland's historic innings surpassed the previous record held by England keeper Betty Snowball, who scored 83 runs way back in 1935. Following her record-breaking century, her name was added to the MCG's Test centuries honour board, as announced by the MCG social media account: "A very, very special addition to the MCG honour boards." This acknowledgment was met with widespread acclaim from cricket fans, many of whom praised the monumental recognition for women cricketers.
Fans took to social media to express their joy, with one supporter noting, "A sign of the times. Brilliant MCG," highlighting how this inclusion signifies the progress of women within the sport. Another user enthusiastically added, "I love this. No asterisk. No reference to it being different. It’s an Australian Test century at the MCG. End of story.”
While the celebrations were largely positive, there were voices of dissent, particularly from former Labor leader Mark Latham, who oddly suggested the MCG should separate board entries by gender. This sparked sharp criticism from fans, who defended Sutherland’s achievement, insisting it was historic irrespective of gender.
The remarkable moment created not just joy for fans but also deep pride for Sutherland, who mentioned, "Pretty special, it’s such a cool occasion for the whole group." She has long dreamt of playing at the MCG, where she grew up watching both cricket and AFL games. "There was no more remarkable place to be than at the ‘G watching the cricket," she said, reflecting on her childhood experiences.
Sutherland’s father, James Sutherland, who has served as the CEO of Cricket Australia, was present at the match and expressed his pride watching his daughter achieve such success. "(I am) certainly nervous and... having played the game, you understand you fail at cricket a lot more than you succeed,” he confessed, wanting nothing more than to see Annabel succeed on and off the field.
Just days after her milestone, Sutherland's accolades continued as she was awarded the Belinda Clark Medal, solidifying her position as Australia’s best women's cricketer for the year. Her performance during the cricket calendar was nothing short of stellar, with her impressive tally of runs and contributions with the ball setting her apart from her contemporaries.
With 373 runs scored and five wickets taken across two matches during the voting period, Sutherland’s dominance yielded her 168 votes, 25 votes more than the second-place finisher Ashleigh Gardner. During this time, Sutherland scored two Test centuries, including her unforgettable 210 against South Africa at the WACA Ground earlier this year.
Becoming the youngest female cricketer to be awarded the Belinda Clark Medal, her achievement showcased the importance of hard work and talent, distinguishing her as one of the leading figures for the future of women's cricket. Following her accolade, Sutherland acknowledged the weight of her new status, stating, “It doesn’t sit very well, to be honest. I would much rather just be out there playing the game.” Such humility reflects her dedication to the sport.
Adding to her accolades, she secured two ODI centuries against India and New Zealand, affirming her status as not just a rising star, but as one of Australia’s premier allrounders. Her capabilities with both bat and ball left her among the upper echelons of the women's game, inspiring the next generation of cricketers.
With cricket growing increasingly competitive and dynamic, Sutherland emerged from her outstanding year with insights about facing the pressure as one of Australia’s top players. Engaging with her family’s legacy, she maintained focus and asserted her intent to keep pushing boundaries for women within the sport.
Many look forward to what’s next for Sutherland as she continues to push the limits and forge pathways for future female cricketers. With her remarkable feats at such a young age, she stands poised to not only meet the expectations set before her but to redefine them entirely.