India’s legendary left-arm spinner Neetu David has been inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024. She joins the elite group of cricketing greats alongside England’s Alastair Cook and South Africa’s AB de Villiers in this class.
Neetu David’s Career
Neetu David is the second-highest wicket-taker for India in Women’s ODIs. She was also the first Indian woman to scalp 100 wickets in the 50-over format. She played a crucial role in India’s historic campaign during the 2005 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, finishing as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker with 20 wickets, helping India reach their first-ever final.
Her Test career was equally illustrious. In a record-breaking performance, she claimed eight wickets for 53 runs against England in Jamshedpur, marking the first-ever eight-wicket haul in Women’s Test cricket.
Neetu David’s journey in International cricket
Neetu David began her international journey in February 1995 and quickly became a key player for India. Filling the shoes of the legendary Diana Edulji, David’s left-arm spin made her a crucial part of India’s bowling attack. Her debut in Test cricket saw her deliver impressive figures against New Zealand, and she continued to dominate throughout her career.
Her standout performances not only led India to key victories but also set records that still stand, cementing her legacy as one of the best female bowlers in cricket history.
Recognition and legacy
David’s induction into the ICC Hall of Fame showcases her contribution to Indian cricket. “It is truly an honour to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, something that I consider to be the highest recognition available to anyone who puts on their national team jersey,” David said.
“To be considered a Hall of Famer alongside the greatest players that ever lived is humbling, and I am thrilled to be part of this exclusive club,” she added.
With 141 wickets in 97 ODIs and 41 wickets in 10 Tests, David’s bowling average of 16.34 remains the best among any bowler, male or female, who has taken at least 100 wickets in ODIs. Her career has left a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring future generations of cricketers, particularly women.
| Test | ODI | |
|---|---|---|
| Match | 10 | 97 |
| Innings | 16 | 97 |
| Wicket | 41 | 141 |
| Best | 8/53 | 5/20 |
About ICC Hall of Fame
The ICC Hall of Fame was launched in January 2009 as part of the ICC’s centenary celebrations. Since then, it has helped celebrate the greatest players ever to have graced the game during its long and illustrious history.
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