The Women's Ashes: History, Format, and Biggest Moments
The complete history of the Women's Ashes — spanning back to 1934, how the multi-format series works, the points system, and iconic moments including Ellyse Perry's world-record 213* in 2017.
Origins: 1934
The Women's Ashes began in 1934 — just three years after the first Women's Test match. Unlike the Men's Ashes where the original urn stays at Lord's, the Women's Ashes urn is the actual trophy awarded to the series winner. The first series was won by England 2-0, played in Australia.
The Multi-Format Series (2013-Present)
From 2013, the Women's Ashes adopted a multi-format points system: one Test (4 points), three ODIs (2 each = 6 total), and three T20Is (1 each = 3 total) — 13 total points. The team accumulating most points wins. This format was groundbreaking: for the first time, all three women's formats were integrated into a single bilateral series with each match contributing to a running tally.
Frequently asked questions
How does the Women's Ashes multi-format points system work?
Test win: 4 points; Test draw: 2 points each. ODI win: 2 points. T20I win: 1 point. Total available: 13. If tied on points, the holders retain the Ashes. The system has produced finals where the overall winner was not known until the last T20I.