New Zealand win ICC Women's T20 World Cup, beating South Africa by 32 runs

New Zealand emerged victorious in the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, defeating South Africa by 32 runs in a thrilling match in Dubai. Chasing a target of 159, the Proteas were restricted to 126/9 in their 20 overs.

South Africa’s chase began with captain Laura Wolvaardt leading the way. She top-scored for her team with 33 runs off 27 balls, hitting five boundaries. However, her dismissal triggered a collapse, with South African wickets falling at regular intervals. Tazmin Brits, who opened alongside Wolvaardt, was the first to depart, contributing 17 runs before being bowled by Fran Jonas at the end of the sixth over.

After Wolvaardt’s wicket, South Africa struggled to build partnerships. Anneke Bosch (9), Marizanne Kapp (8), Nadine de Klerk (6), Chloe Tryon (14), Sune Luus (8), Annerie Dercksen (10), and Sinalo Jafta (6) were all unable to make significant contributions. Nonkululeko Mlaba (4*) and Ayabonga Khaka (4*) were the last players standing as the Proteas fell short by 32 runs.

Earlier, New Zealand set a challenging target of 159 after South Africa chose to bowl first. Suzie Bates and Georgia Pimmer opened the batting for the Black Caps, with Bates scoring 32 off 31 balls, including three boundaries. Pimmer, however, managed only 9 runs from seven balls before being dismissed by Ayabonga Khaka in the second over.

Bates’ innings came to an end when she was bowled by Nonkululeko Mlaba in the seventh over. Captain Sophie Devine followed soon after, falling to Nadine de Klerk for just 6 runs.

All-rounder Brooke Halliday steadied the ship for New Zealand with a crucial 38 off 28 balls, hitting three boundaries and helping her team cross 100 runs by the 14th over. Halliday was eventually dismissed in the 17th over by Chloe Tryon, but her efforts ensured New Zealand posted a competitive total.

Amelia Kerr was the standout performer for the Black Caps, scoring 43 runs before being caught by Tazmin Brits off Mlaba’s bowling. New Zealand finished their innings at 158/5, with Maddy Green (12*) and Isabella Gaze (3*) remaining unbeaten.

South Africa’s bowlers performed well, with Ayabonga Khaka, Chloe Tryon, and Nadine de Klerk each taking a wicket, while Mlaba bagged two.

Despite their strong bowling efforts, South Africa's batting lineup couldn’t chase down the target, handing New Zealand the World Cup title.