The name derives from the historic precedent of the Ashes in male cricket and, until 2013, was similarly decided exclusively on the outcomes of Test matches.

[5] At that time, according to the English captain, Betty Archdale, women played only "for love of the game" and did not wish to be associated with the male concepts of Tests and Ashes.

In July 2009, England retained the Women's Ashes after the one-off test at Worcester ended in a draw.

England regained the trophy on the new points system in August 2013, and successfully defended it in a series played in Australia in January–February 2014.

[10] Following the 2001 series, the Australian team took an empty replica home with them and the ball containing the ashes remained in the Lord's museum.