New Zealand stuns cricket world after winning first Women’s T20 World Cup title

New Zealand has stunned the cricket world by winning their first ever Women’s T20 World Cup title following their 32-runs win over South Africa in the final this morning in Dubai.

New Zealand set a target of 159, ending at 158-5 with Melie Kerr contributing 43 runs off 38 balls and Brooke Halliday adding 38 from 28 balls.

South Africa struggled in response, finishing at 126-9.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt was the star of the side after scoring 33 runs, while New Zealand’s Kerr was also the star bowler taking 3 wickets for 24 runs supported by Rosemary Mair’s 3-25.

This win is particularly sweet for New Zealand, who had lost 10 matches before the tournament.

They will receive $2.34 million in prize money, while South Africa will take home $1.7 million.