Wendy Blunsden was a reluctant leader and relinquished the captaincy of Australia after one year, preferring to focus on her own game.
Wendy Blunsden represented SA for an incredible period of 19 years, four as captain and nine as vice-captain – from the 1961-62 season to 1979-80 season.
Wendy Blunsden captained Australia in one Test, and importantly for South Australian cricket, was the first Australian captain outside of NSW and Vic.
The following is a quote from Blunsden on the day of her national selection. “When the letter arrived from the AWCC it was the best day of my life, but no one was home, so I celebrated with the dog.”
She was a reluctant leader and relinquished the much sought-after position after the first year of captaining Australia, preferring to focus on her own game. She played internationally for 4 years in 6 Test Matches and 6vODIs. Interestingly, Ms Blunsden was a left-hand bat and a right arm off spin bowler.
Her highest score was 23 and best bowling figures were 2/13.
In 1973, the inaugural World Cup (50 overs) was played in England. SA’s sole representative was Wendy Blunsden, a strict person who was intensely focused on perfecting her skills.
Australia beat Young England, Trinidad and Tobago, NZ, Jamaica. England beat Australia by 90 runs.
Blunsden paved the way for many young SA players, demonstrating what can be achieved through personal ambition, thoughtfulness, and commitment.
