New Zealand secured their place in the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 by defeating the West Indies in the second semi-final. This marks their third appearance in the T20 World Cup final, but the journey to this stage has been anything but straightforward for the White Ferns. Demonstrating immense grit and determination, New Zealand overcame a series of challenges throughout the tournament, redefining their status as formidable contenders.
New Zealand had endured a daunting 10-match losing streak, including a 5-0 whitewash against England, heading into the tournament under immense scrutiny. The pressure was palpable, and doubts loomed over their ability to compete at the highest level. However, their transformation in this World Cup has been nothing short of remarkable.
In the early editions of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, New Zealand reached consecutive finals, falling short both times—losing to England in the inaugural edition (2009) and to Australia in 2010. Despite their early successes, the subsequent decade saw the team fail to reach the final again. After 14 years, however, Sophie Devine’s leadership has guided New Zealand back to the summit with a determined and inspiring run to the final.
Placed in Group A alongside reigning champions Australia, India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, New Zealand faced a formidable challenge from the outset. They opened their campaign against India at the Dubai International Stadium, a crucial match that set the tone for their journey. Batting first, New Zealand posted a competitive total of 160 and then restricted India to 102, securing a commanding 58-run victory.
However, in their second group match, New Zealand faced a setback against Australia, losing by 60 runs while chasing 149. Despite the defeat, the White Ferns bounced back strongly, defeating Sri Lanka in their third game. After restricting Sri Lanka to 115, New Zealand comfortably chased the target to win by eight wickets.
The final group match against Pakistan was a must-win contest, with the Group A points table tightly contested. Batting first, New Zealand could only manage 110, but their bowlers produced a brilliant display to dismiss Pakistan for 56, sealing a dominant 54-run win and securing their spot in the knockout stages.
In the second semi-final, New Zealand faced the West Indies, a team that had won the 2016 edition of the T20 World Cup. The encounter brought back memories of the 2016 semi-final, where the West Indies triumphed over New Zealand. This time, however, Sophie Devine’s side was determined to rewrite history.
At the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, New Zealand won the toss and opted to bat first. Despite a disciplined bowling performance by the West Indies, New Zealand managed to post a total of 128. Chasing 129, the West Indies’ aggressive top order was halted by a masterclass in spin bowling. Eden Carson, supported by tournament-leading wicket-taker Amelia Kerr, exploited the sluggish Sharjah surface to stifle the West Indies’ chase. Kerr’s crucial wicket of the dangerous Deandra Dottin swung the momentum back in New Zealand’s favor, ensuring they defended their total successfully.
Throughout the tournament, New Zealand’s senior players have risen to the occasion. Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine, Lea Tahuhu and Amelia Kerr have all delivered crucial performances under pressure, alongside young bowling talents in Eden Carson and Rosemary Mair. The pre-tournament concerns around New Zealand’s batting were quickly dispelled as their experienced players stepped up in crunch situations.
Now, New Zealand is set to face South Africa in the ninth edition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final. As they prepare for their third shot at the title, the question remains: can the White Ferns finally seize the crown that has eluded them in previous finals?
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