In the world of cricket where fresh legs are roped-in with excitement, rightly so, courtesy of the flair and the talent they offer, hence grabbing the spotlight — but time and again, seasoned athletes prove that age is just a number, and dreams when chased with obsession, become destiny.
Women’s T20 International cricket has witnessed its fair share of late bloomers, players who have redefined the parameters of age who receive their international caps at a time when no one would’ve expected them to step onto the international arena. Their stories are a testament to resilience, passion, and the undying love for the game. As we celebrate these inspiring journeys, here’s a look at the top five oldest players to debut in WT20Is, reminding us that it’s never too late to chase your professional dreams.
Sally Barton
At an age when people are being tagged as the veterans of the game, Sally Barton made history by becoming the oldest player to debut in Women’s T20 Internationals. Representing the Gibraltar women’s national cricket team — a side that has been an ICC associate member since late 1969 — Barton made her international debut at an incredible age of 66 years and 334 days. Her debut came against the Estonia women’s cricket team on 21 April 2024, proving that passion for the sport transcends age limits. Sally’s story stands as a shining example of grit, spirit, and the timeless joy of playing the game. Barton, the wicketkeeper-batter, has represented her side in six WT20Is. She was last seen in action against the Jersey Women on 15 December 2024 — the most recent appearance for her team in a WT20I fixture.
Joanna Child
Joanna Child etched her name into the record books as the second oldest player to debut in Women’s T20 Internationals. Turning out for Portugal, Child made her international debut at the remarkable age of 64 years and 181 days. The milestone came on 7 April 2025, in the opening T20I of the series against Norway at Albergaria. Her appearance wasn’t just a personal triumph but also a powerful reminder that cricketing dreams can take flight at any stage of life. Child had a quiet series, featuring in three matches but making a mark in just one inning with 2 runs to her name. She went wicketless with the ball as Portugal fell short by five wickets in the opener but bounced back to seal the series 2-1 against Norway.
Molly Moore
Claiming the third spot on this inspirational tally is Molly Moore, who made her WT20I debut for the Cayman Islands at the age of 62 years and 25 days. Her memorable moment transpired on 26 September 2024, when she stepped onto the international field against the Argentina women’s team at Pocos de Caldas. Molly’s debut wasn’t just about numbers — it was about how dreams, when blended with unwavering commitment and perseverance can become reality. Moore, a top-order right-handed batter, has scored 29 runs from 3 innings, remaining unbeaten once. She was last seen in action during the 3rd place playoff at the South American Women’s Championships on 29 September 2024, where her team edged to a thrilling 4-run victory.
Marcia Moiten
September 26, 2024, was a historic day for Women’s cricket as Marcia Moiten, compatriot of Molly Moore, took the fourth spot on the list of oldest WT20I debutants on the same day against the very same opposition. Representing the Cayman Islands alongside Molly Moore, Marcia made her debut at Pocos de Caldas. At 58 years and 192 days, she proved that age is no barrier when it comes to chasing your cricketing dreams, adding another inspiring chapter to the growing list of fearless, late-blooming cricketers. Marcia Moiten, a right-arm bowler, has impressed with 6 wickets from 4 innings at an economy of 6.85. She was last seen in the 3rd place playoff at the South American Women’s Championships on 29 September 2024, where she delivered figures of 2 for 29 to help her side clinch a narrow 4-run win.
Philippa Stahelin
Rounding off this inspiring list is Philippa Stahelin, who made her WT20I debut for Guernsey at the age of 58 years and 33 days. Her landmark appearance came on 31 May 2019, in a clash against the Jersey women’s team at St Peter Port. Philippa’s debut wasn’t just a personal milestone but a proud moment for Guernsey cricket, showing that determination for the game can turn passion into profession. Philippa Stahelin has enjoyed a longer international career than most of her teammates, making her debut back in 2019. She was last seen at the Nordic Women’s T20 Cup on 11 August 2024 against Norway Women. In 12 innings, Philippa has tallied 131 runs, with a career-best of an unbeaten 56.
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