The White Ferns have made history, winning their first T20 Women’s World Cup title after defeating South Africa by 32 runs in a thrilling final held in Dubai on October 20, 2024. This marks New Zealand’s first appearance in a final since their 2010 loss to Australia.
Led by captain Sophie Devine, the White Ferns posted 158 for five in their 20 overs, with Melie Kerr top-scoring with 43 runs. Contributions from Brooke Halliday (38) and opener Suzie Bates (32) helped set a competitive target. South Africa began strongly with Laura Wolvaardt and Tazmin Brits, putting on a 51-run partnership. However, Fran Jonas’s dismissal of Brits initiated a dramatic collapse, with Kerr claiming three wickets in quick succession.
South Africa struggled to regain momentum and finished at 126 for nine, handing the White Ferns a well-deserved victory. Kerr was named player of the match for her all-round performance, finishing with three wickets for 24 runs.
Pace bowler Rosemary Mair praised the team’s resilience, saying, “All the odds were against us. To bounce back like we have is unbelievable.”
The victory is expected to have a significant impact on women’s cricket in New Zealand, with New Zealand Cricket head of female engagement Jess Davidson predicting an exciting future for junior cricketers across the country.
Captain Sophie Devine expressed her pride, saying, “This means everything to us. We’ve fought hard and shown what we’re capable of.” As celebrations continue, the White Ferns’ triumph is set to inspire a new generation of cricketers, marking the start of an exciting new era for women’s cricket in New Zealand.
