A New Dawn

History Makers—Part X

What follows is the latest installment in our series on the inaugural women’s Ashes tour of 1934/35. The previous installment is here.

Women at the wicket

As we come to the eve of the opening match of this epoch-making tour, it is clear that those who still doubt the ability of women to play cricket are living in another era. This week enthusiastic crowds have flocked to watch the England and Western Australian cricketers practice. They’ve also had the opportunity to observe the curator meticulously preparing the wicket in the center of the square, just as he does for all significant matches at the WACA.

On Saturday, the gates will open at 11:30. Play is set to begin at 1:15, with tea served from 15:30 to 15:45. Stumps will be drawn at 17:45. Admission to the grandstand enclosure and outer reserve will be 1s and 1s 6d, respectively. Children will be charged 8d and 6d.

Following Sunday’s rest day, play will resume at 11:00 on Monday, with lunch scheduled from 12:45 to 13:30. The England team is expected to board the ss Baranald for Adelaide around 17:00, meaning stumps will be drawn at 14:45.

The team has come here to play cricket, but they’ve had a plethora of engagements, including theatre visits, Swan River cruises, and civic receptions. During these events Betty Archdale has fielded numerous questions about perceptions and stereotypes of the Australian crowd. When asked about her concerns regarding the notorious barracking, she responded that she would strategically position players in the deep who are best equipped to handle the crowd.

Many of these cricketers excel in other sports, such as hockey and lacrosse. While most of the team attended the Ambassadors Theatre, lacrosse players Partridge, Valentine and Child were entertained by the WA Lacrosse Association at the King Edward Hotel.

The program can be accessed here if you would like to read more about the match.

If you would like to contribute to this newsletter, please either respond to the email in which you received it, or leave a comment below.