New Zealand Claims First Women's T20 World Cup Title with 32-Run Win Over South Africa

New Zealand Wins Women's T20 World Cup for the First Time

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates -- New Zealand clinched the Women’s T20 World Cup title for the first time by defeating South Africa by 32 runs in the final held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Amelia Kerr played a pivotal role, contributing both with bat and ball.

New Zealand set a total of 158-5, with Kerr scoring 43 runs off 38 balls and Brooke Halliday adding 38 runs. In response, South Africa managed only 126-9 in their 20 overs, with captain Laura Wolvaardt leading with 33 runs from 27 balls. Kerr’s bowling figures of 3-24 helped to stifle the South African innings.

This victory marks a significant achievement for the White Ferns, adding to their 2000 One Day World Cup title, making them the first New Zealand team to win a T20 World Cup, while the men's team, the Black Caps, has yet to accomplish this feat. South Africa, seeking their maiden T20 championship, suffered a second consecutive defeat in a World Cup final after losing to Australia in 2023.

New Zealand showcased a strong batting display, quickly gaining momentum with a score of 51-1 within just 6.5 overs. Despite early setbacks, they stabilized their innings, ultimately posting a strong total. In the second half of the match, South Africa struggled to keep the pace, losing wickets consistently as pressure mounted.

Amelia Kerr’s all-around performance earned her both Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament honors, finishing the World Cup with a record 15 wickets. New Zealand captain Sophie Devine praised the team's perseverance over the past 18 months, highlighting the significance of this win for New Zealand cricket.