New Zealand defy the odds to lift the World Cup

The inaugural Women's T20 World Cup (known as World Twenty20) final in 2009 was contested by New Zealand and England at Lord's. The hosts on that occasion came out on top by six wickets. Suzie Bates was stumped for one and Sophie Devine, batting at number nine, was run out for 10 as New Zealand were bowled out for 85. Devine's three overs conceded 1/12 from the three overs that she completed.

The following year, they faced their near rivals Australia in Bridgetown, Barbados. This proved a much closer affair, with only three runs separating the teams. Devine's unbeaten 38 from 35 balls could not see them home after Ellyse Perry successfully defended 14 from the final over.

Fast forward 14 years and the pair again lined up for the anthems in a World Cup final; this time against last year's runner-up South Africa. This was a sight far removed from the pre-tournament expectations of a team that had lost the previous ten bilateral matches that they had played, albeit these matches were played exclusively against England and Australia, the top two ranked teams in the world.

For the third successive ICC tournament (women's and men's) South Africa made it to the final and for the first time went in as many onlookers favourites for the title. With the opening partnership of Laura Woolvardt and Tazmin Brits, a world-class all-rounder in Marizanne Kapp and useful bowling attack; it was clear to see why this favourite tag was awarded when put in the context of New Zealand's recent results.

However, the White Ferns were just too strong for the South Africans, and after making 158/5 from their 20 overs, they restricted South Africa to 126/9 leading to a 32-run victory.

Amelia Kerr was the player of the tournament after setting a record for the most wickets in a single edition (15) and scoring 135 runs at an average of 27.

Others who impressed for the winners were Georgia Plimmer (150 runs), Suzie Bates (150 runs) and Rosemary Mair (10 wickets).