Women's T20 World Cup 2024: New Zealand beat South Africa in Final to win Maiden T20 Title

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New Zealand clinched their first Women's T20 World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 32 runs on Sunday (October 20).

This victory not only brought home the ICC trophy but also marked a double celebration for New Zealand cricket, following the men's team's first Test win in India in 36 years, occurring just hours earlier.

The final, held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, saw New Zealand, led by Sophie Devine, setting a challenging target of 158 for five after being put into bat by South Africa.

The foundation of New Zealand's competitive total was laid by Amelia Kerr and Brooke Halliday, who scored 43 off 38 balls and 38 off 28 balls, respectively. The New Zealand bowlers then took centre stage, effectively curbing South Africa's response. Despite a promising start by South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt, who scored 33 off 27 deliveries, her team's chase was stifled, ending at 126 for nine.

The Kiwis came into the tournament with 10 consecutive losses, but they rose the highest with some scintillating performance throughout the tournament. Their bowling throughout the competition was outstanding, and their batting saw a notable improvement in the final.

In the chase, South Africa made a superb start with Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits. The pair added 50 runs for first wicket but South Africa's pursuit faltered significantly after the loss of Wolvaardt in the 10th over to Kerr, a crucial juncture that saw Suzie Bates making a catch at cover. The departure of Anneke Bosch soon after further dimmed South Africa's hopes. The pressure from New Zealand's bowlers proved too much for South Africa's untested middle-order, leaving them unable to mount a comeback. They could only manage 126 for 9 in their 20 overs. Amelia Kerr and Rosemary Mair both got three wickets each for New Zealand.

A Historic Day for New Zealand Cricket

The day was historic for New Zealand cricket, witnessing both the men's and women's teams achieving significant victories. The Women's T20 World Cup win was especially sweet, given the team's struggles leading into the tournament. Their captain Sophie Devine won her first ICC title in her 9th T20 World Cup appearance.

South Africa, on the other hand, faced disappointment for the second consecutive time in a T20 World Cup final. Their decision to field first upon winning the toss could not yield the desired outcome against a determined New Zealand side. In the end, they didn't play the best cricket and will be hoping for a better outing in the coming edition.