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With just two balls left and South Africa needing 38 runs to win, New Zealand’s hands were practically on the Women’s T20 World Cup trophy. As the final moments unfolded, legendary captain Sophie Devine looked skyward, fighting back tears. When the victory was finally confirmed, her long-time teammate Suzie Bates leapt into her arms, overwhelmed with joy and disbelief as a lifelong dream was realized.
For the 35-year-old Devine and 37-year-old Bates, this moment crowned careers spanning 18 years, during which they made a combined 624 appearances for New Zealand’s White Ferns. Together, they’ve lived through the highs and lows of New Zealand cricket—from consecutive final defeats in 2009 and 2010 to an improbable victory in 2023 after a string of 10 consecutive losses leading into the tournament.
While neither player had a standout tournament statistically, their leadership and experience were instrumental. Bates, at the top of the order, helped guide young Georgia Plimmer, both of them finishing as New Zealand’s joint-highest run scorers with 150 each. Devine’s calm captaincy allowed Melie Kerr to shine, taking a record-breaking 15 wickets in the tournament.
New Zealand’s win is not only monumental for the country’s cricket but also for women’s sports in a nation where rugby and netball dominate. This victory also provides a glimmer of hope for the women’s game globally, proving that the dominance of Australia in the sport may not be as unassailable as once thought.
How New Zealand Pulled Off Their T20 Triumph
New Zealand’s path to victory wasn’t marked by aggressive play. In fact, their scoring rate of 6.5 runs per over ranked sixth in the tournament. However, their consistency paid off, with their bowlers taking a tournament-leading 48 wickets. Spinners like Kerr stood out, while the team excelled in the field, taking the most catches (31) and contributing crucial dot-ball percentages.
Despite their challenges, including losing the second-most wickets in the tournament, New Zealand’s balanced performances across the squad, including contributions from Rosemary Mair and Eden Carson, helped them secure a surprise victory.
A New Era for Women’s Cricket?
New Zealand’s unexpected victory, combined with South Africa’s dismantling of Australia in the semi-final, has injected fresh life into the women’s game. After years of Australian dominance, the unpredictability of this tournament has proven that the gap between the top teams may be narrowing. However, it’s important that this tournament serves as a turning point, not a one-off.
With calls for a women’s SA20 league growing louder in South Africa and the Caribbean Premier League showing signs of expansion, the future of women’s cricket may hinge on the balance between franchise leagues and international play. If more players gain exposure through such leagues, this tournament could be remembered as the one that shifted the landscape of women’s cricket.
