South Africa Women vs New Zealand Women, Final ICC Women's T20 World Cup, 2024

In a historic night for New Zealand cricket, the White Ferns defeated South Africa by 32 runs in the final of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. It was a moment of catharsis for New Zealand, especially for veterans Suzie Bates and captain Sophie Devine, who shared an emotional embrace as they led their team to the top of the cricketing world after years of ups and downs.

New Zealand posted a competitive total of 158/5 in their 20 overs, anchored by a composed 43 from Amelia Kerr and crucial contributions from Suzie Bates (32) and Brooke Halliday (38). South Africa’s bowlers, led by Nonkululeko Mlaba (2/31) and Ayabonga Khaka (1/44), fought hard, but the Kiwis’ strong batting display set the tone for the final.

In reply, South Africa could only muster 126/9, falling 32 runs short of the target despite a fighting knock of 33 from captain Laura Wolvaardt. Amelia Kerr starred with the ball as well, claiming 3/24 and turning the game decisively in New Zealand’s favor. Rosemary Mair also chipped in with key wickets, finishing with figures of 3/30. The South African middle order struggled to build momentum, leading to yet another heartbreak in a global final for the Proteas.

New Zealand’s Batting Effort: Steady Start, Strong Finish

Opting to bat after losing an early wicket, New Zealand recovered from the loss of Georgia Plimmer (9) with Bates and Kerr steering the innings. Bates, in her familiar role as an opener, struck a controlled 32 off 31 deliveries before being dismissed by Mlaba. Kerr’s 43 from 38 was the backbone of New Zealand’s innings, providing stability through the middle overs.

Sophie Devine’s departure for just 6 in the 11th over could have been a turning point, but Brooke Halliday’s aggressive 38 off 28 balls, including three boundaries and two sixes, gave New Zealand the late surge they needed. Maddy Green’s unbeaten 12 off 6 added valuable runs, as New Zealand posted a challenging total of 158, aided by 15 extras from South Africa’s bowlers.

South Africa’s Struggle: Early Wickets and Kerr’s Magic

South Africa’s chase began promisingly, but the loss of Tazmin Brits (17) and Wolvaardt (33) in quick succession left the team vulnerable. Anneke Bosch (9) and Marizanne Kapp (8) failed to capitalize on starts, and Amelia Kerr’s brilliant spell removed key batters. Kerr’s double strike, including the crucial wicket of Wolvaardt, effectively derailed South Africa’s hopes.

Kapp, who came out of retirement earlier this year to help her side’s World Cup campaign, couldn’t produce her trademark all-round heroics. Rosemary Mair then struck with timely wickets, including the dismissal of Chloe Tryon (14) and Sinalo Jafta (6), ensuring South Africa never found the rhythm needed for a successful chase.

The Emotional Victory: A Triumph for Bates, Devine, and Kerr

For Suzie Bates and Sophie Devine, who have been the heart and soul of New Zealand cricket since the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup in 2008, this win was especially significant. The pair, who have experienced the highs and lows of the game, finally tasted World Cup glory, with Devine emotional at the post-match celebrations. Amelia Kerr, too, was in tears, overwhelmed by the achievement alongside her teammates.

Devine’s passion for cricket has always been undeniable. From her early days playing both hockey and cricket at the national level, to nearly representing New Zealand in hockey at the 2008 Olympics, she has become one of the most revered all-rounders in the game. Her love for the sport shone through, and the missed hockey opportunity was long forgotten as she held the T20 World Cup trophy aloft.

Heartbreak for South Africa: Close, But Not Enough

For South Africa, it was another chapter of near misses in major tournaments. Despite Wolvaardt’s steady hand at the top and some strong bowling performances, they couldn’t get over the line. Marizanne Kapp, who considered retirement earlier this year before being persuaded to continue, could not inspire her team to victory in what was possibly her final World Cup.

South Africa’s spirited campaign ended in disappointment, but their progress in world cricket remains undeniable. They will hope to break their title drought soon, despite this bitter loss.

Brief Scorecard:

• New Zealand Women: 158/5 in 20 overs (Amelia Kerr 43, Suzie Bates 32, Brooke Halliday 38; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2/31)
• South Africa Women: 126/9 in 20 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 33, Chloe Tryon 14; Amelia Kerr 3/24, Rosemary Mair 3/30)

Result: New Zealand Women won by 32 runs to claim the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.

The night belonged to New Zealand, a team that weathered years of heartache to finally achieve World Cup glory. The sight of Devine and Bates embracing each other in celebration will be remembered as the enduring image of the 2024 T20 World Cup final.