Dubai, October 18, 2024 – A new chapter in women’s cricket history will be written on Sunday when New Zealand faces South Africa in the final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. Both teams, having never won the prestigious title, will battle it out for their maiden crown at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
New Zealand, led by the indomitable Sophie Devine, secured their place in the final with a tense victory over the West Indies in Sharjah. New Zealand edged out the Caribbean side in a thrilling contest on Friday, setting up their first T20 World Cup final appearance in 14 years. Despite reaching the final twice before—in 2009 and 2010—they fell short on both occasions, losing to England and Australia, respectively. This time, they are determined to change their fortunes and claim the ultimate prize.
On the other side, South Africa stunned the cricketing world by toppling the formidable Australian side, six-time champions of the T20 World Cup. In a fiercely contested semi-final on Thursday, South Africa overcame the Aussies in a performance filled with grit and resilience. South Africa, who were runners-up in the 2023 edition after a heart-wrenching 19-run defeat to Australia, will now look to avenge their past heartbreak and lift the trophy for the first time.
South Africa journey to the final marks only their second appearance in a major international cricket tournament’s finale. Their 2023 campaign, which ended with a loss in front of a home crowd in Cape Town, still weighs heavy on the team, but they are determined to rewrite their history in Dubai.
For both teams New Zealand and South Africa, Sunday’s final represents a golden opportunity. With only three nations—Australia, England, and West Indies—having ever won the Women’s T20 World Cup, the stakes have never been higher. England triumphed in the inaugural edition in 2009, while West Indies claimed their sole title in 2016. Australia, the dominant force, have clinched six titles across the tournament’s eight editions.
As the anticipation builds, the Dubai International Cricket Stadium is set to host what promises to be an electrifying contest. The final, scheduled for 18:00 local time, will see two hungry teams striving for their place in cricketing history, ensuring that, no matter the outcome, the world will witness a new champion crowned.