New Zealand women made history by winning their maiden Women’s T20 World Cup title, defeating South Africa women by 32 runs in a thrilling final. The highly anticipated showdown took place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, October 20, 2024, where both teams gave their all in a high-stakes battle for the trophy.
After losing the toss, New Zealand women were sent in to bat. Openers Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer provided a steady start, contributing 32 and nine runs, respectively. The star of the innings, Amelia Kerr, delivered a standout performance with 43 runs off 38 balls. However, captain Sophie Devine struggled, managing only six runs from 10 balls.
Brooke Halliday’s crucial knock of 38 from 28 deliveries further boosted New Zealand’s innings, while Maddy Green and Isabella Gaze chipped in with 12 and three runs, respectively. New Zealand posted a competitive total of 158/5 in their 20 overs.
Also Read:New Zealand Wins First ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Title Against South Africa
For South Africa, Nonkululeko Mlaba led the bowling attack, picking up two wickets. Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon, and Nadine de Klerk each contributed with a wicket, but New Zealand’s solid batting left them chasing a tough target.
New Zealand’s Bowlers Shine in Title Defense
South Africa’s chase began with Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits opening the innings, scoring 33 and 17 runs, respectively. Despite some resistance from Anneke Bosch (9), Marizanne Kapp (8), and Chloe Tryon (14), South Africa’s middle order couldn’t build enough momentum. Sune Luus and Annerie Dercksen added eight and 10 runs, respectively, but South Africa was ultimately restricted to 126/9, falling short by 32 runs.
New Zealand’s bowlers delivered a clinical performance, with Amelia Kerr and Rosemary Mair leading the charge, each taking three wickets. Eden Carson, Fran Jonas, and Brooke Halliday chipped in with a wicket apiece, sealing New Zealand’s historic win.
Here’s how fans and experts reacted on social media platform X to New Zealand women’s triumph in the T20 World Cup 2024 final:
