The White Ferns emerged victorious over South Africa, with stellar performances in both batting and bowling. Kiwi veterans proudly earn the title of world champions.
Title: A Heartbreaking Defeat at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Final
In Bridgetown on May 16, 2010, the stage was set for the thrilling final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. The tension was palpable as Sophie Devine faced Ellyse Perry, who was charging in to deliver the crucial ball. With New Zealand’s target set at 107 runs, the Kiwis needed 5 runs to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat on the final delivery, or a boundary to force a tie. As Perry released a full delivery, Devine unleashed a powerful stroke down the ground, hoping to secure the much-needed runs. However, fate had a different plan as the talented Australian athlete, also known for her prowess in football with the Matildas at the Fifa Women’s World Cup, extended her right foot to intercept the ball inches away from the boundary. The crowd erupted as Australia clinched the title, leaving Devine devastated on the field. The anguish of that moment continues to haunt her, a bitter memory etched in her mind.
The memory of that particular day in New Zealand remains vivid for a 9-year-old child. Amelia Kerr cherishes the significance of that moment when she made the decision to aspire to be a White Fern. In a video tribute to Devine prior to the 2024 final, Kerr expressed, “Reaching the final alongside Devine holds immense value for me and the young girl, aged 9, who was an observer during that game.
Kerr didn’t just participate in the final match with Devine on Sunday; she emerged as the champion and the standout performer of the entire tournament. At just 24 years old, this rising star guided New Zealand to their inaugural World Cup victory, showcasing an outstanding all-around display with 43 runs off 38 deliveries and figures of 3/24 as they triumphed over South Africa by 32 runs. Expressing her elation, Kerr mentioned, “I am somewhat at a loss for words; I am absolutely thrilled about this victory, especially considering the challenges our team has faced. This is the stuff dreams are made of.
New Zealand, opting to bat first, impressed with a total of 158/5 in 20 overs, powered by Kerr’s 43 runs and Brooke Halliday’s impactful 38 off just 28 deliveries. South Africa, starting confidently in their chase, faced a setback when Kerr removed Laura Wolvaardt, leading to a dominant performance by New Zealand, making them the fourth team to claim the coveted trophy.
South Africa has shown excellence in chasing during the World Cup, whereas New Zealand made a strong start fueled by Suzie Bates. Although the Powerplay yielded results, maintaining momentum in the 7-12 phase proved somewhat challenging for New Zealand.
Turning point
When Kerr faced challenges in gaining momentum at the start, Devine and Bates returned to the dugout. However, Halliday stepped in and altered the course of the game. Her timely two boundaries in the 14th over broke a streak of 48 balls without any boundary. Achieving a target of 159 was undoubtedly difficult, especially after South Africa’s strong start. Yet, Kerr and Eden Carson, a standout player in the competition, mirrored New Zealand’s consistent performance by picking up wickets at regular intervals during the middle overs.
Before the tournament began, few would have expected New Zealand to make it to the final, let alone emerge as the champions. The team had faced defeat in 10 consecutive T20Is leading up to the World Cup. Despite the announcement of Devine’s captaincy resignation post-tournament, the team maintained their faith, relied on their thorough preparation, and stood united. The sentiment of “we genuinely value each other” resonated in multiple player interviews following their victory.
Devine and Bates, two seasoned players who graced the 2010 final and reunited 14 years later, have finally clinched the world championship title, bringing an end to their long wait. Bates, on the day of the final, achieved a remarkable milestone as the most capped female international cricketer, surpassing Mithali Raj’s record with her 334th appearance for New Zealand. Having witnessed the evolution of the White Ferns over the past decade, they attribute their success to the younger players, including Kerr, who consistently rose to the occasion throughout the tournament.
Devine praised Kerr as a rare talent, highlighting her incredible performance that night. He marveled at her outstanding display with the bat despite battling cramps, acknowledging her impressive cricket skills. However, what he values most is Kerr’s character and exceptional care for the team. Devine expressed pride in her potential and the bright future ahead, emphasizing the limitless possibilities for Kerr.
New Zealand managed to score 158 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their allotted 20 overs with standout performances from Amelia Kerr (43 runs), Brooke Halliday (38 runs), and Suzie Bates (32 runs). Their bowling attack then restricted South Africa to 126 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in 20 overs, securing a 32-run victory. Amelia Kerr and Rosemary Mair were the pick of the bowlers, picking up 3 wickets each, while Laura Volvaardt top-scored for South Africa with 33 runs.
