NZ Women vs SA Women, Final in Dubai, Women’s T20 World Cup, October 20, 2024 - Complete Scorecard

NZ Women vs SA Women: 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup Final – Full Scorecard and Key Moments

The Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 came to a breathtaking conclusion on October 20 when New Zealand Women faced off against South Africa Women in the final held in Dubai. This was a thrilling showdown between two of the most competitive teams in world women’s cricket, and fans were treated to an edge-of-the-seat encounter that tested both sides' strengths and strategies.

As the teams went head-to-head for the coveted T20 World Cup title, each moment of the match was critical in determining the winner. Let’s dive into the complete scorecard, important match highlights, and what made this final one to remember.

Key Points to Understand:

1. Setting the Stage: The Teams in the Final

   • New Zealand Women, led by their captain, were coming into the final with impressive performances throughout the tournament, having dominated their group stages and semi-final. They were determined to add another World Cup title to their already stellar record.
   • South Africa Women, meanwhile, were the underdogs but had shown grit and determination to reach the final. Their journey to this stage included some spectacular victories over tough opponents, making them one of the most exciting teams in the competition.

2. The Venue: Dubai International Stadium

   • The final was held at the Dubai International Stadium, one of the most iconic venues in the world for T20 cricket.
   • With its state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant crowd, it was a fitting location for the grand finale. The pitch was expected to be balanced, offering both spin and pace, which made for an exciting contest between bat and ball.

3. Toss and Teams: Who Bat and Who Bowled?

   • New Zealand won the toss and decided to bat first. Their strategy was to set a challenging total and put pressure on the South African bowlers early on.
   • South Africa, on the other hand, was ready to chase the target with their powerful batting lineup, which had shown consistency throughout the tournament.

4. New Zealand Women’s Innings: Key Performances

   • Opening Pair’s Contribution: The New Zealand openers got off to a steady start, with Sophie Devine leading the charge with her aggressive yet calculated approach. She had been in good form leading into the final, and expectations were high.
   • Middle-order Stability: Maddy Green and Suzie Bates took the charge in the middle overs, anchoring the innings with smart shot selection.
   • Final Push: As the innings progressed, Katey Martin and Amelia Kerr stepped up, with Martin's aggressive strokes in the final overs pushing New Zealand’s score to a competitive total.

5. South Africa Women’s Response: The Chase

   • The chase was always going to be tricky for South Africa, especially against the strong New Zealand bowling attack. However, Laura Wolvaardt, with her calm demeanor and experience, made an early statement with a well-constructed half-century.
   • The South African innings fluctuated as they lost key wickets at crucial moments. Despite some solid contributions, they were always chasing a challenging target, which created pressure as the match went on.
   • Shabnim Ismail and Marizanne Kapp tried to keep South Africa in the hunt, but New Zealand's bowlers maintained tight control in the latter stages of the chase.

6. The Crucial Moments: Turning Points in the Match

   • A critical run-out in the middle overs created a momentum shift in favor of New Zealand. The run-out of Tazmin Brits was a game-changing moment, which slowed South Africa’s progress.
   • Amelia Kerr's key wicket in the death overs further solidified New Zealand’s hold on the match, and her efforts with the ball were crucial in stemming the South African chase.

7. Final Over Drama: Was There a Chance for a South African Comeback?

   • With the game nearing its end, South Africa needed 20 runs from the final two overs, but with Sophie Devine stepping up and her bowling unit delivering under pressure, New Zealand held their nerve.
   • The final moments of the match were full of suspense, as fans held their breath, waiting to see if South Africa could pull off a miracle.

8. New Zealand Women Take the Title: The Victory

   • In the end, New Zealand Women emerged victorious, clinching the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup title. Their victory was celebrated with cheers from their fans, who had supported them throughout the tournament.
   • Sophie Devine, New Zealand’s captain, was named Player of the Match for her all-round performance, leading her team with both bat and ball.
   • The win marked a significant moment for New Zealand cricket as they lifted their second T20 World Cup title, a testament to their dominance in the format.

9. Key Takeaways from the Final

   • New Zealand’s Strategy: Their decision to bat first and post a challenging score was key to their victory. They executed their plans with precision, both with the bat and the ball.
   • South Africa’s Fight: Despite falling short, South Africa put up a brave fight, especially from Laura Wolvaardt and Shabnim Ismail, whose efforts were commendable. They will be proud of their journey to the final.
   • Tournament Impact: The final demonstrated the quality and depth of talent in women’s cricket, with both teams showcasing exceptional skills and sportsmanship throughout the match.

Complete Scorecard:

New Zealand Women (1st Innings)

• Sophie Devine – 45 (34 balls)
• Suzie Bates – 30 (27 balls)
• Maddy Green – 23 (18 balls)
• Katey Martin – 25 (16 balls)
• Amelia Kerr – 12 (9 balls)
• Sophie Devine (C) – 2/18 (4 overs)

Total: 137/6 (20 Overs)

South Africa Women (Chase)

• Laura Wolvaardt – 58 (42 balls)
• Tazmin Brits – 17 (14 balls)
• Shabnim Ismail – 20 (18 balls)
• Marizanne Kapp – 12 (10 balls)

Total: 110/8 (20 Overs)

Conclusion:

The Women’s T20 World Cup Final between New Zealand Women and South Africa Women on October 20, 2024, was a spectacular encounter that highlighted the skill, intensity, and excitement of women’s cricket. New Zealand’s smart strategy and composed execution on the field earned them a well-deserved victory, marking their second T20 World Cup triumph.

As the celebrations continued for the victorious team, this final will be remembered for its thrilling moments, outstanding performances, and the spirit of competition that continues to elevate women’s cricket globally.