New Zealand claimed their first Women's T20 World Cup title on Sunday, beating South Africa by 32 runs in a gripping final held in Dubai. The victory makes New Zealand only the fourth nation to win the prestigious tournament, after England, Australia, and the West Indies.

After losing the toss, the Kiwis were sent in to bat and posted a competitive total of 159 runs, thanks to standout performances from Amelia Kerr and Suzie Bates. Kerr, who was instrumental with both bat and ball, played a vital innings, scoring 43 off 38 balls, and later took three wickets for just 24 runs. Bates, the most-capped women's international player, contributed 32 runs before being dismissed by South Africa’s Nonkululeko Mlaba, who impressed with figures of two for 31.

South Africa, playing in their second consecutive T20 World Cup final, struggled to build momentum during their chase. Despite early breakthroughs, including captain Sophie Devine’s dismissal for 22, the Proteas fell short of the target, managing only 127 runs. Georgia Plimmer was caught out early, and although South Africa’s bowlers, particularly Mlaba and Ayabonga Khaka, kept the pressure on, a 57-run partnership between Kerr and Brooke Halliday (38) proved decisive.

This marks New Zealand’s first World Cup final appearance since 2010, while South Africa continues their search for a maiden title after falling short to Australia last year.