New Delhi, June 20 -- In a tense, last-over finish at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, defending champions New Zealand Women finally registered their first win of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026. They edged Ireland Women by 4 runs in a match that showcased resilience, big partnerships, and clutch performances from both sides.

Ireland won the toss and chose to field, and their bowlers struck early. New Zealand slumped to 10 for 3 inside the first four overs as Georgia Plimmer, Isabella Gaze, and Maddy Green fell cheaply. Captain Amelia Kerr then steadied the innings with a composed 30 off 24 balls.

Brooke Halliday (34 off 37) and Izzy Sharp (36 off 28) added crucial momentum through the middle overs, sharing a vital stand that lifted New...