An emotional Suzie Bates gazed skyward, her happiness unmistakable as South Africa’s target dwindled to just 34 runs off two balls. It wasn’t rocket science to predict the outcome, and even the most seasoned player on the team struggled to contain her joy, particularly in front of a raucous crowd of 21,000.
The camera shifted to an ecstatic Lea Tahuhu, hands clasped atop her head, laughing in disbelief. Amelia Kerr, who had given her all in the sweltering humidity of Dubai just days earlier, also looked skyward in gratitude before Eden Carson prepared to deliver the final ball of the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup final.
Amid the celebration, Sophie Devine appeared to be managing her emotions better than most, only to fully embrace the moment moments later.
A swing and a miss from the South African batsman sent the entire White Ferns squad into a frenzy of joy, with the exception of a tearful Devine and Bates, who seemed to encapsulate the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs of the past decade and a half in a heartfelt embrace near the inner circle.
Fifteen years had led to this moment for two of the New Zealand women’s cricket team’s senior players. They had both stood on the hallowed grounds of Lord’s, facing a devastating six-wicket loss. The following year, Devine was close to clinching the win, but Ellyse Perry’s defensive instincts thwarted her straight drive towards the trophy. Now, as their careers neared their twilight, the duo finally grasped the elusive silverware, completing a narrative unlike any other.
Tahuhu sprinted in, solidifying the bond with Devine and Bates, while the newer generation of players joined them, forming a jubilant huddle that symbolized everything this White Ferns campaign represented. At its core was a unity that had weathered numerous challenges, with each member nurturing one another as they forged ahead together.
True to the team’s culture and values, they remained grounded in their history. Fellow Kiwi broadcaster Laura McGoldrick shared a few bear hugs, reveling in the uncontainable joy. Katey Martin, who had once kept wickets behind the senior trio and was now commentating, also joined in the celebrations and selfies, marking a historic moment for the White Ferns.
Tears flowed freely as Devine recounted the game and the campaign to Mel Jones. While her team eagerly awaited her return to the podium, she took a moment to extend praise to the South African team, the runners-up, prompting loud applause from the crowd, which included many neutral spectators who remained for the crowning ceremony.
Eden Carson and Tahuhu had the celebratory bottles ready for a pop. Greg Barclay, the outgoing ICC chief and a fellow Kiwi, gave a thumbs-up before presenting the shimmering trophy to Devine, leaving the stage to the jubilant women. This round of festivities was filled with tears, champagne, and fireworks in equal measure.
Around two and a half hours into the evening—marked as their first night as newly crowned T20 champions—the White Ferns returned to the confetti-laden Dubai pitch, barefoot. Leading the group was Kerr, guitar slung around her neck, with the coaching staff and many family members following closely, including Martin with their drinks in hand.
Gathering in a circle on the pitch, reminiscent of a ring of fire highlighting their triumph, New Zealand celebrated its three champions. At the center of this circle, Tahuhu held the trophy aloft while the team posed for photos in every direction. Bates, the senior-most member of the group, playfully challenged the younger players to a dance-off.
As the staff and families stepped back, the team, with Kerr leading on the guitar, serenaded their outgoing captain with ‘E te Iwi E.’ This traditional Māori song, familiar to each player from their upbringing, pays tribute to the people of Aotearoa. It reflects on remembering those who have passed and honors their contributions, emphasizing love and community. Rooted in their values, this song was a poignant tribute to a leader who, against all odds, had forged an exceptional team and nurtured remarkable individuals.
“She’s one of a kind; there will never be another Sophie Devine in world cricket,” Bates had remarked prior to the final. “She remains so calm and composed. She’s instilled great values in this group, ensuring we prioritize caring for each other as cricketers. She stays above the politics that often accompany the captaincy, focusing solely on her responsibilities. I’m really going to miss her as a captain, but we still have a little more to give. I’ve cherished every moment alongside her. The fact that she has led us to this point is a testament to her calm demeanor and positive spirit within this group.”
An unusually exuberant Bates danced joyfully through the night of celebrations, first in the center of the festivities and later to the Bollywood beats of the Papare. In contrast, a visibly emotional Devine sat mid-pitch, cradling the cup and accommodating everyone eager for a keepsake. Lifting the trophy had been the ultimate goal from day one, and there she was, tears in her eyes after leading her experienced and spirited team to unprecedented heights, all while honoring the sacrifices that paved their journey.
