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White Ferns Win Maiden T20 World Cup with Victory Over South Africa
New Zealand’s White Ferns claimed their first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup title with a stunning 32-run win over South Africa in Dubai.
The victory marks a historic achievement for the White Ferns, who had lost 10 consecutive matches leading up to the tournament and previously fell short in the 2009 and 2010 finals.
New Zealand’s Strong Batting Performance Sets the Tone
Batting first, New Zealand set an imposing total of 158-5, thanks to key contributions from Melie Kerr, who scored 43 off 38 balls, and Brooke Halliday, who added a quick-fire 38 from 28 balls. The duo formed a crucial partnership of 57 runs that helped anchor the innings after a solid powerplay start. Despite South Africa’s efforts to restrict boundaries during the middle overs, New Zealand managed to score 48 runs off the final five overs, capitalizing on a loose bowling display by the Proteas, who conceded 10 wides and three no-balls.
South Africa’s Chase Falls Short
In pursuit of 159, South Africa started strongly, racing to 51-0 within the first seven overs. However, the tide turned in New Zealand’s favor as South Africa collapsed to 77-5. Leg-spinner Melie Kerr, who also excelled with the bat, claimed 3-24 and became the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, while seamer Rosemary Mair took 3-25. Kerr’s spell played a pivotal role in dismantling the Proteas’ batting lineup, including the key dismissal of Marizanne Kapp for just eight runs.
Despite a promising start by captain Laura Wolvaardt, who scored 33, South Africa struggled under the mounting pressure, with Tazmin Brits’ 17 being the second-highest score. The rest of the middle order faltered, with Anneke Bosch, Nadine de Klerk, and Sune Luus all falling for single figures.
New Zealand’s remarkable bowling performance sealed their comprehensive victory, ending South Africa’s campaign at 126-9, and crowning the White Ferns as the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup champions.
