New Zealand Defeats West Indies to Reach Women’s T20 World Cup Final: South Africa Awaits
In a thrilling encounter at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, New Zealand secured their spot in the final after an 8-run victory over West Indies. Played at the Sharjah ground in the UAE, the semi-final saw New Zealand put up a gritty defense, as they restricted the West Indies women to 120 runs, chasing a target of 128. The Kiwis will now face South Africa in the final, ensuring that the world will see a new T20 Women’s champion on October 20.
New Zealand Edges Out West Indies in Semi-Final Thriller
New Zealand, batting first after winning the toss, struggled to build momentum but managed to set a competitive total of 128 for 9 in their 20 overs. Key contributions came from Georgia Plumber, who top-scored with 33 off 31 balls, and Suzy Bates, who chipped in with a valuable 26 off 28 balls. Brooke Holliday’s quickfire 18 off 9 balls and Isabella Gage’s 20 off 14 added crucial runs in the middle order.
West Indies bowler Deandra Dottin was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 4 wickets and troubling New Zealand throughout their innings. Effie Fletcher also picked up 2 wickets, keeping the Kiwi batters in check. Despite these efforts, New Zealand managed to put up a challenging total of 128.
West Indies Falls Short in the Chase
In reply, the West Indies women faced an uphill battle. Their innings never quite gathered steam, as they kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Deandra Dottin, who scored 33 off 22 balls, was the top scorer for West Indies, with Effie Fletcher contributing 17 off 15 balls. However, their efforts were in vain as the team fell short, managing only 120/8 in their 20 overs.
New Zealand’s Aidan Carson was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 key wickets. Amelia Kerr chipped in with 2 wickets, while Fran Jonas, Leigh Tahuhu, and Suzy Bates took one wicket each to restrict West Indies’ progress.
With this win, New Zealand secured their place in the final, where they will face South Africa, who had earlier defeated tournament favorites Australia in the other semi-final.
Final Showdown: New Zealand vs South Africa
The final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will take place on October 20 at the Dubai International Stadium. Both New Zealand and South Africa are chasing their first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup title, making this a historic occasion. The last time New Zealand reached the finals was in 2009 and 2010, where they finished as runners-up. South Africa, on the other hand, has emerged as a formidable force after defeating Australia in a shocking semi-final victory.
With both teams in excellent form, cricket fans around the world are eagerly anticipating a close contest.
Eden Carson Named Player of the Match
Eden Carson’s impactful bowling was the key to New Zealand’s victory, and she was rightfully named the Player of the Match. Carson’s figures of 3 wickets for 24 runs were crucial in halting West Indies’ chase, especially when the Caribbean side seemed poised for a comeback.
Stats Overview
- New Zealand Women in T20 World Cup Finals: 3rd time (previously runners-up in 2009, 2010)
- West Indies Women’s T20 WC Semi-final Record: Played 6, Won 1 (Champions in 2016), Lost 5
As the final approaches, all eyes are now on New Zealand and South Africa, as one of them will lift the Women’s T20 World Cup trophy for the first time on October 20.
