New Zealand’s women’s cricket team finally ended their ICC tournament title drought by winning their first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup title. The team triumphed over South Africa in the final held at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on October 20, 2024. After missing out on the title in 2009 and 2010, the Kiwis delivered a stellar performance to defeat South Africa by 32 runs, securing both the prestigious trophy and a substantial cash prize.
New Champion After 8 Years
For the first time in eight years, the reign of Australian dominance in women’s T20 cricket has ended. The New Zealand team’s exceptional performance in the tournament culminated in a 158-run total in the final, set up by Amelia Kerr’s all-round brilliance. South Africa, which was playing its third final, struggled to chase the target and could only manage 126/9, falling short by 32 runs.
With this victory, New Zealand earned a historic reward. The ICC had doubled the prize money for this edition, and the champions received a whopping $2.34 million (about Rs 19.67 crore), making it the highest prize ever given to a Women’s T20 World Cup winner. New Zealand also received an additional Rs 78 lakh for winning three group-stage matches, bringing their total earnings to Rs 20.45 crore.
Runner-Up South Africa Earns Rs 10.62 Crore
Although South Africa fell short in the final, they didn’t leave empty-handed. The team, which had reached the final for the second consecutive time, took home $1.17 million (around Rs 9.83 crore) as the runner-up. In addition to this, they earned Rs 78 lakh for their three group-stage victories, bringing their total prize to Rs 10.62 crore.
Despite their strong tournament run, South Africa’s wait for a World Cup title continues. They previously lost the Women’s T20 World Cup final in 2023 against Australia. This time, although they had high hopes, they couldn’t chase New Zealand’s target and ended up once again as runners-up.
India’s Prize Despite Early Exit
Team India, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, had a disappointing tournament, exiting in the group stage after failing to qualify for the semi-finals. However, India did manage to win two group-stage matches against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. For these victories, the Indian team was awarded Rs 52 lakh, despite their overall poor performance in the tournament.
Other Teams’ Earnings
The semi-finalist teams also received significant rewards for their performances. Six-time champions Australia, who were knocked out in the semi-finals for the first time in 15 years, were awarded Rs 7.66 crore. The West Indies, the other semi-finalist, received Rs 7.40 crore.
England, who finished fifth in the tournament, took home Rs 4 crore. Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, who all faced early exits, were given Rs 3.47 crore, Rs 3.47 crore, and Rs 2.08 crore, respectively.
Final Match Recap
Amelia Kerr was the star performer for New Zealand in the final, earning the ‘Player of the Match’ title for her outstanding contribution with both bat and ball. Kerr scored a crucial 43 runs and took three wickets, leading New Zealand to a commanding 158/5 in their 20 overs. Her partnership with Brook Halliday, who contributed 38 runs, helped set a competitive target for South Africa.
In response, South Africa struggled to gain momentum, losing wickets at regular intervals and failing to match New Zealand’s total. With this win, New Zealand not only broke their World Cup curse but also cemented their place as one of the top teams in women’s T20 cricket.
