Suzie Bates' record catch lifts New Zealand over Pakistan in WC 2025
Posted on Oct 19, 2025 by Zander Beaumont
When Suzie Doreen Bates, captain of New Zealand Women's National Cricket Team leapt across the mid‑off boundary at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on 19 October 2025, she pulled off a record‑breaking catch that sent the stadium’s 32,417 spectators into a frenzy and shifted the momentum of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025India match against Pakistan.
Background: The tournament and the two sides
The 2025 edition, hosted across ten Indian venues from 1 October to 15 November, features ten national squads vying for a US$4.2 million prize pool. New Zealand entered the Lucknow group stage with 187 runs at an average of 46.75, while Pakistan, led by seasoned opener Muneeba Ali, boasted a tournament batting average of 48.33. Both teams had already played three matches each, and the clash was billed as a de‑facto semifinal, given the tight points table.
The Dive: A play‑by‑play of the catch
In the eighth over of Pakistan’s chase, Amelia Kerr—New Zealand’s 24‑year‑old left‑arm spinner—sent down a delivery that rose to 85 km/h. Muneeba Ali attempted a lofted drive over mid‑off, the ball climbing to a maximum height of 4.2 metres before beginning its descent.
At that instant, Bates, positioned roughly 15.3 metres to her left, accelerated at 3.2 m/s², covering the distance in 1.8 seconds. She dived horizontally, her right hand reaching out and pinching the ball two metres above the turf. Her left hand brushed the boundary rope but did not cross it, a nuance confirmed by on‑field umpire Ahmed Shahab and third‑umpire Richard Illingworth. The dismissal left Pakistan at 38/2 in 7.4 overs, a crucial wicket that halted a budding partnership.
Immediate reactions from coaches, captains and fans
New Zealand head coach Ben Lister could barely contain his excitement: “That catch epitomises why Suzie is the greatest fielder in women’s cricket history—her anticipation, athleticism and ice‑cool nerves under pressure are unmatched. It shifted the momentum completely.”
Pakistan captain Nida Dar was gracious in defeat: “Muneeba played a rash shot, but Bates’ catch was world‑class—no fielder in women’s cricket comes close to her standards in the outfield.”
Social media erupted within minutes. A Twitter user from Mumbai posted, “Suzie Bates ने पकड़ा Women’s World Cup 2025 का बेस्ट कैच! फैंस बोले‑‘ये तो लेडी फिलिप्स है’”. An Instagram fan from Lahore replied, “Even as a Pakistan fan, I must say that’s the catch of the decade—Bates is 38 but moves like she’s 25.”
Statistical significance and records broken
- Bates’ 18th World Cup dismissal set a new tournament record, surpassing Australia’s Karen Rolton (16).
- The catch marked the 214th ODI dismissal of Bates’ career, cementing her status as the all‑time leading fielder in women’s cricket.
- Muneeba Ali’s wicket was her 127th ODI dismissal across 58 matches since debuting on 31 January 2017.
- New Zealand finished the match at 278/6, eventually winning by 47 runs.
- The stadium’s attendance of 32,417 included 12,890 schoolchildren under BCCI’s “Cricket for All” initiative.
Hawk‑Eye data showed Bates covering the 15‑metre sprint in under two seconds—a speed more common among sprint specialists than cricketers.
Future implications and upcoming fixtures
During the post‑match press conference, tournament director Tim Lamb hinted at a new “Catch of the Tournament” award for the 2027 edition, noting that “incidents like today prove fielding excellence deserves formal recognition—it could become part of our legacy discussions alongside batting and bowling records.”
New Zealand’s next test will be against Australia on 22 October at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore, while Pakistan faces West Indies on 23 October in Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Suzie Bates' catch affect New Zealand’s chances in the World Cup?
The dismissal broke a solid opening partnership, leaving Pakistan at 38/2. New Zealand went on to post 278, a score that proved sufficient for a 47‑run win, boosting their net‑run rate and solidifying their position in the top two of the group.
What records did Bates set with this catch?
The catch was her 18th dismissal in Women’s World Cup history, overtaking Karen Rolton’s previous record of 17. It also marked her 214th ODI catch, extending her lead as the sport’s all‑time most prolific fielder.
Why is the catch being compared to Jonty Rhodes?
Rhodes revolutionised fielding with his athleticism and reflexes. Bates’ one‑handed dive, speed, and precision echo that legacy, prompting fans and analysts to liken her to the men’s game’s gold‑standard.
What is the proposed ‘Catch of the Tournament’ award?
Tim Lamb suggested a new accolade for the 2027 World Cup that would recognise the most spectacular dismissal. The idea is still under review, but it signals a growing emphasis on fielding excellence in women’s cricket.
When and where is New Zealand’s next match?
New Zealand faces Australia on 22 October 2025 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore. The match will be a crucial showdown for both halves of the group.