Ellyse Perry, already revered as a cricket legend, is poised to make history once again on Sunday night in Mumbai. Stepping onto the field for Australia’s second T20 against India, she will notch her 300th international appearance across all formats, a feat achieved by only three other women before her.
Joining the pantheon of legends like Mithali Raj (333 games), Charlotte Edwards (309), and Suzie Bates (309), Perry’s career boasts an astounding eight World Cup wins – two in the 50-over format and a phenomenal six T20 triumphs for Australia. Individually, she stands as the first player to reach the 1000-run, 100-wicket milestone in T20Is.
Further recording her name in the history books, Ellyse Perry holds the mark for the highest score by an Australian woman in Tests (213 not out) and sits proud as the third player to claim 150 wickets in women’s ODIs.
Reflecting on the upcoming landmark, Ellyse Perry, speaking in Mumbai before the second ODI, acknowledged the surprise element but emphasized it as a moment for “gratitude and reflection.”
“It’s incredible how fortunate I’ve been,” she shared, her voice carrying the weight of cherished memories. “Playing the sport I love, being part of this amazing team…these are the things that truly matter.”
But her journey, she mused, began not on the grand stage, but in a simpler space: “I think probably one of the biggest things that I’ve reflected on over the last couple of days is just where it all started, in the backyard with my dad and my older brother, and then some of the incredible lifelong mates that I made playing school and club cricket when I was a kid.”
From those humble beginnings, her career blossomed into a remarkable adventure, showcasing her talents not just on the cricket field, but also as a dual international with the Matildas, further propelling her into the public eye.
“To be honest, I think from a bigger picture point of view, I’ve just had so much pride and joy in being involved in the team for the period of time that I have (which has been) such an influential time in women’s sport as well,” Perry added.
At just 16, Perry burst onto the international scene with a bang in 2007. Taking 2-37 and scoring 19 in an ODI against New Zealand, she was a teenage prodigy destined for greatness.
Her meteoric rise transformed her into one of Australia’s most recognizable sports stars, especially during her dual-international days as a Matildas footballer.
Perry’s immense popularity fueled the remarkable growth of women’s cricket in Australia and its global resurgence. However, as the sport continues to evolve, Perry’s role has shifted. No longer the fresh-faced rookie, she now navigates the challenges of her veteran status.
For the first decade of her career, Perry was a force of nature, blessed with unwavering form and fitness. But that golden run came to an abrupt end in 2020 during Australia’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign, when she suffered a devastating hamstring tear.
Perry’s influence extends far beyond personal accolades. Her unwavering dedication and unparalleled achievements have been instrumental in elevating the profile of women’s cricket in Australia and beyond, paving the way for its global resurgence.
Yet, as the game evolves at breakneck speed, Perry now navigates a different landscape, embracing the role of a senior player. Having weathered injuries and setbacks, she continues to adapt and inspire, a testament to her enduring resilience and commitment to the sport.
Ellyse Perry’s 300th international appearance is not just a number; it’s a celebration of an exceptional career, a symbol of her longevity and commitment to women’s cricket and its growth.
