New Zealand has clinched their first T20 World Cup title, defeating South Africa by 32 runs, thanks to a stellar performance from all-rounder Melie Kerr. Kerr top-scored with 43 off 38 balls, despite suffering from cramps due to the Dubai heat, and managed to take crucial wickets of Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch in the 10th over, turning the match in New Zealand's favor.
This victory marks New Zealand's first global trophy win since 2000, coming after a series of setbacks, including a 5-0 T20 whitewash by England in July. On Sunday in Dubai, the Kiwi underdogs finally found their rhythm.
The win was particularly sweet for the seasoned players like Suzie Bates (37), Sophie Devine (35), and Lea Tahuhu (34), who have long fought for World Cup success. Kerr shone as the star, finishing with figures of three for 24, but the victory was a team effort. Brooke Halliday contributed with a 57-run partnership, built on hard work and determination.
South Africa started strong, reaching 58 for one after eight overs, but Tahuhu's pressure-inducing bowling and Kerr's wickets swung the momentum. Bates' reliable fielding and contributions from young spinners Fran Jonas and Eden Carson, along with three wickets from seamer Rosemary Mair, helped New Zealand secure the win.
New Zealand's aggressive start, reaching 50 for one in the first seven overs, was tempered by South Africa's反击. Bates scored 32, becoming the most-capped player in women's internationals, but was bowled by Nonkululeko Mlaba. Devine added six runs before being dismissed by a DRS review. Kerr and Halliday's partnership helped New Zealand rebuild, despite South Africa's ill-discipline with wides and no-balls.
South Africa's slow over rate in the final overs allowed New Zealand to capitalize, with Maddy Green hitting the first six of the innings, securing 16 runs in the 20th over and swinging the momentum back to New Zealand.
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