New Zealand’s First Women’s T20 World Cup Victory

October 20, 2024, marked a historic achievement for the New Zealand women’s cricket team as they secured their first-ever ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title

In a dominant final, the Kiwis triumphed over South Africa by 32 runs. Entering the tournament as underdogs, New Zealand proved their worth by putting up an all-round display of skill and determination. South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first, hoping to capitalize on early breakthroughs. New Zealand, however, started strong, with openers Georgia Plimmer and Suzie Bates contributing 43 runs in the powerplay. Despite a brief slowdown once Amelia Kerr joined Bates, the partnership stabilized the innings. Brooke Halliday, finding her rhythm in the 14th over, sparked a resurgence, contributing 57 runs with Kerr and boosting the total to 158 for 5.

Chasing a daunting 159, South Africa began promisingly with Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits laying a solid foundation. However, New Zealand’s bowlers, led by captain Sophie Devine, tightened their grip on the game, dismantling the Proteas’ middle order with devastating spin attacks. The South African team struggled to form meaningful partnerships and lost wickets regularly, causing their run rate to spiral out of control. Amelia Kerr and Rosemary Mair were instrumental, with impressive bowling figures of 3/24 and 3/25, respectively. Ultimately, South Africa crumbled under pressure, and New Zealand emerged victorious. This win was extraordinary for Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates, who had faced disappointment in the 2009 and 2010 finals.