Edwards is most capped woman

Charlotte Edwards has led England in 67 of her record 142 one-day internationals - the most by an English man or woman

Charlotte Edwards became the most capped female cricketer in the world when she captained England in her 142nd one-day international, against Sri Lanka at the P Sara Oval in Colombo today.

Edwards made her international debut at the age of 16, in the third Test against New Zealand at Guildford in 1996.

She took over the reins in 2005 and has now captained England women in a record 67 ODIs - the most by an English man or woman.

2009 was undoubtedly the most successful year for England women as the team became double world champions and retained the Ashes, all under the leadership of Edwards.

In her international career prior to today's game, Edwards has scored 4,105 runs, including four centuries, taken 47 wickets, has a highest score of 173 not out and is currently ranked sixth in the women’s world batting rankings.

Edwards said: “I’m very proud of my achievement. It’s been an unbelievable journey.

“I dreamed of playing for England and I got the opportunity very young. It seems a long time ago - a lot has happened along the way. It's been a long journey with a lot of highs and lows but more recently a lot of highs.

“I’m as motivated as anything now and want to keep making this team successful.”

Clare Connor, head of women’s cricket at the ECB, said: “Charlotte Edwards has been a force in international women's cricket for nearly 15 years and continues to lead the England team with unrivalled enthusiasm, passion and dedication.

“She is a credit to women's cricket, both in England and globally, and a superb role model for young girls who aspire to play for their country. We are all very proud of her outstanding record.”

Edwards steered England to World Cup glory in Australia last year, defeating New Zealand in the final