ICC Women’s T20 World Cup: New Zealand Crowned Champions

New Zealand clinched the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title by defeating South Africa by 32 runs in a thrilling final match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Chasing a target of 159 runs, South Africa managed to score only 126 runs in their allotted 20 overs. South Africa’s captain, Laura Wolvaardt, was the top scorer with 33 runs, while Tazmin Brits and Chloe Tryon contributed 17 and 14 runs, respectively.

For New Zealand, Amelia Kerr and Rosemary Mair led the bowling attack, each taking three wickets, while Eden Carson, Fran Jonas, and Brooke Halliday claimed one wicket apiece.

Earlier, New Zealand set a competitive total of 158 runs for the loss of five wickets. Amelia Kerr was the top performer with the bat, scoring 43 runs, while Brooke Halliday added 38. Suzie Bates and Maddy Green contributed 32 and 12 runs, respectively.

From the South African side, Nonkululeko Mlaba took two wickets, while Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon, and Nadine de Klerk picked up one wicket each.

The final began with South African captain Laura Wolvaardt winning the toss and opting to field first, inviting New Zealand’s captain Sophie Devine to set a target.