Kate Blackwell
Sport: Cricket
Year Inducted: 2019
Born in Wagga Wagga in 1983, Kate Blackwell, and her twin sister Alex, grew up on a property in Yenda near Griffith. Both cricketers of great renown, together, they made history when they became the first set of identical twins – of either gender – to represent Australia in cricket.
The twins developed their game playing for Griffith East Public School’s 1995 state championship winning girls’ team, and the Griffith Ex-Serviceman’s Cricket Club from 1996-1999. They also played for Griffith in representative boy’s teams against neighbouring towns.
I have been very fortunate to have been involved with Cricket NSW and Cricket Australia. What they have done for women’s cricket is something that we do not take for granted. … I thank the people of Griffith and the Riverina for the interest they have shown in my career.
Kate Blackwell
Kate first represented NSW in the U/17 team. She was then selected for the NSW Breakers in 2002 and went on to win six national titles alongside her twin sister Alex. Kate made her international debut during the 2004 tour of India. She won a World Championship as part of the Australian team at the 2005 Women’s 50 over World Cup in South Africa.
Later that year, Kate made her international test match debut in the Ashes tour of England. Although Australia ended up losing the Ashes, Kate showcased her skills in the second Test at Worcester, coming to the crease with Australia in the awful position of 3 for 7. Kate fought for an innings that lasted more than five hours and scored 72 – a career best.
The England tour continued with the Australian team’s historic first T20 international game. Kate again rallied for Australia, coming to the crease at 3 for 6 and hitting 43 from 38 balls, including five boundaries. Her 147-run partnership with Karen Rolton lead Australia to their first Twenty20 victory – a partnership that remains the record for the highest 4th wicket runs to this day.
Kate went on to play four Tests, 41 One Day Internationals and six T20 International matches for Australia.
When Kate retired from playing cricket in 2010, her sister Alex praised her dedication and passion for the sport, stating “It is sad for me to hear her say farewell after 20 years in cricket together. I am proud to have competed alongside her, and I owe so much to her. I would not be the cricketer I am today without Kate”.