New Delhi, JNN: New Zealand’s women’s team won their second ICC title and first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup by defeating South Africa by 32 runs in the 2024 final held in Dubai.
New Zealand, batting first, scored 158/5, led by Amelia Kerr (43) and Brooke Halliday (38). In reply, South Africa managed to score only 126/9. This is the first time New Zealand has won the Women’s T20 World Cup, after being runners-up twice in 2009 and 2010.
New Zealand’s all-rounder Amelia Kerr shined with 43 runs and three wickets, earning the Player of the Match award. With six wickets in six matches, Kerr was also named Player of the Tournament. South African captain Laura Wolvaardt’s 223 total runs in the tournament were notable.
Key Points:
- First T20 World Cup Victory: New Zealand has won the Women’s T20 World Cup for the first time, after previously being runners-up in 2009 and 2010.
- Dominant Performance: New Zealand set a challenging total of 158/5, thanks to key contributions from Amelia Kerr (43) and Brooke Halliday (38). South Africa struggled in response and could only manage 126/9.
- Match Turning Point: South Africa, at 85/3 after 13 overs, was in a strong position, but New Zealand’s tight bowling and fielding turned the tide. Amelia Kerr’s all-round performance (43 runs and 3 wickets) was pivotal in securing the win.
- Player of the Match and Tournament: Amelia Kerr was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance. She was also awarded Player of the Tournament for taking six wickets in six matches.
- South Africa’s Fight: Despite a promising start, South Africa’s middle-order crumbled under pressure, allowing New Zealand to dominate in the final overs. Captain Laura Wolvaardt led South Africa’s charge in the tournament, scoring 223 runs across six matches, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
- Trophy Celebration: The New Zealand team celebrated their historic win with joy, lifting the T20 World Cup trophy after waiting for more than a decade since their last ICC final appearances.
