Sydney, Aug 25 (HS): Former Australian captain Belinda Clark has been accorded the prestigious status of ‘Legend’ in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, becoming only the sixth cricketer to receive the honor. She joins an elite list that includes Sir Don Bradman, Keith Miller, Richie Benaud, Dennis Lillee and Shane Warne. The Hall of Fame hailed her for excellence, longevity, determination, and outstanding contribution to the game.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest batters in world cricket, Clark scored runs at an average of 47.49 in ODIs and 45.95 in Tests during her career spanning from 1991 to 2005. Taking over the reins of captaincy at just 23, she led Australia for 11 years, guiding the team to 83 victories in 101 ODIs and lifting two World Cup titles.
Her most iconic feat came in the 1997 Women’s World Cup, when she hammered an unbeaten 229 against Denmark, becoming the first-ever cricketer — male or female — to score a double century in ODIs.
Beyond her playing days, Clark has been a driving force in promoting women’s cricket, serving as an administrator with Cricket Australia and as a member of the ICC Women’s Committee.
Reacting to the honor, Clark said: “It’s an incredible recognition. I feel a mix of pride, gratitude and disbelief. Cricket is a team sport, and this accolade reflects the efforts of teammates, coaches and support staff. I’m thrilled women’s cricket is moving in the right direction, and I’m confident about its future.”
Selection committee chair Bruce McAvaney praised her legacy, remarking: “Clark is a trailblazer. She changed the way the game was played with her aggressive batting. Her leadership as a player, captain and administrator remains unmatched.”
Clark’s contribution to the sport has already been immortalized — in 2023, her statue was unveiled at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), and medals have been instituted in her name by Cricket Australia and Cricket New South Wales.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
