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The European Women's Championships 2005 was centred around Cardiff between 14th-19th August and was conducted in sunny weather and without a hint of Duckworth/Lewis.

On day 1 Ireland outclassed a spirited Scotland side by 203 runs mainly due to a superb innings of 93 from Clare Shillington whilst in the other match Holland, with Caroline Salomons making 89, came out winners by 7 wkts against the hosts Wales.

Day 2 saw Holland easily defeat Scotland by 5 wkts and England defeat an under achieving Ireland by 63 runs. England were gaining in confidence with every match and proceeded to amass a record total of 323 (Sarah Taylor 83 not out) against Scotland and with Stephanie Davies taking 4 wkts for 5 runs completed a victory by 202 runs. A determined Wales performance, ably led by a classy century of 107 not out from Hannah Lloyd, helped them to beat a still under achieving Ireland team by 59 runs.

After a well deserved rest day, England (with Sarah Taylor once again to the fore in scoring 90 not out), soundly saw off the Holland challenge by 94 runs whilst the Wales team, playing at Sophia Gardens for the very first time, completed a resounding victory over Scotland by 143 runs with Hannah Lloyd remaining undefeated on 121 runs.

The final day arrived with the overall placings still undecided, however England were in no mood to deny them being champions and resolutely beat a disappointing Wales by 10 wkts. The match between Holland and Ireland produced some high quality cricket but with Clare Shillington scoring 95 not out and Ceceilia Joyce 77 not out, they eventually ran out comprehensive winners over Holland by 116 runs.

These results left England as the undefeated Champions whilst the minor placings were decided on net run rate which resulted in Ireland finishing as runners up, Wales in 3rd place, Holland 4th and a spirited Scotland 5th. Ireland won the Spirit of Cricket Award and Hannah Lloyd from Wales, as a result of 2 undefeated centuries was voted Player of the Tournament. Other noteworthy performances came from Sarah Taylor of England who remained undefeated all week and Clare Shillington of Ireland.

Overall a most enjoyable tournament played at some beautiful venues and in the best traditions of cricket.