An outstanding all-round performance by Amelia Kerr led New Zealand to their first ever Women's T20 World Cup title as they beat South Africa by a commanding 32 runs in Sunday's final in Dubai.
Player of the Match Kerr top-scored with 43 as New Zealand posted an imposing 158-5 in their 20 overs before taking 3-24, and crucially picking up the key wickets of Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch, to restrict South Africa to 126-9 in their 20 overs.
It marked a sweet finish to skipper Sophie Devine's career.
The victory came 14 years after the White Ferns lost to Australia by just three runs in the 2010 final. They also lost to England in the 2009 championship match.
For South Africa it made for a double disappointment having lost last year's final to Australia in Cape Town.
An outstanding all-round performance by Amelia Kerr led New Zealand to their first ever Women's T20 World Cup title as they beat South Africa by a commanding 32 runs in Sunday's final in Dubai.
Player of the Match Kerr top-scored with 43 as New Zealand posted an imposing 158-5 in their 20 overs before taking 3-24, and crucially picking up the key wickets of Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch, to restrict South Africa to 126-9 in their 20 overs.
It marked a sweet finish to skipper Sophie Devine's career.
The victory came 14 years after the White Ferns lost to Australia by just three runs in the 2010 final. They also lost to England in the 2009 championship match.
For South Africa it made for a double disappointment having lost last year's final to Australia in Cape Town.
New Zealand Women posted a competitive 158/5 in their 20 overs against South Africa. Suzie Bates anchored the innings with a steady 32 off 31 balls, striking three boundaries and maintaining a strike rate of 103.23. Georgia Plimmer showed early intent with her 9-ball 7, but she was caught by Sune Luus off Ayabonga Khaka’s smart bowling in the second over.
Amelia Kerr added a crucial 43 off 38, displaying her power-hitting abilities before being dismissed by Nonkululeko Mlaba. Skipper Sophie Devine couldn’t make an impact, scoring just 6 before falling LBW to Nadine de Klerk. Brooke Halliday’s explosive 38 off 28 balls, including three boundaries, kept New Zealand’s momentum going, while Maddy Green chipped in with an unbeaten 12 off 6 to finish the innings strong.
South Africa's bowlers had their moments of brilliance, with Mlaba standing out, taking 2 wickets for 31 runs. Khaka and Tryon each chipped in with a wicket, while Kapp and de Klerk kept the run rate in check during key phases. With a target of 159, South Africa will need a solid batting performance to chase down the total and take control of the match.