Women Secure World Cup Win

 

by James Skitt - 23.03.09

England have been crowned Women’s Cricket World Cup Champions after a tense four wicket victory over New Zealand in Sydney.

Nicki Shaw, only in the side as a late replacement for the injured Jenny Gunn, was the hero in Sunday’s final taking 4-34 as New Zealand were bowled out for 166, before adding 17 not out with the bat to help steer England over the line in reply.

“I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved as a group of people,” Head Coach Mark Lane told ecb.co.uk

England, who won six of their seven matches during the tournament, were supported throughout by English Institute of Sport (EIS) Strength and Conditioning Coach Ian Crump, with Lane paying tribute to the sides support team after the victory.

“Whenever you get success, all the hard work and hard graft you put in is satisfying,” he said. “Everyone who’s kept the players fit, healthy and strong through this World Cup should be thanked.”

The success comes at the start of a big year for the England team, who have the World Twenty20 and Ashes to look forward to on home soil this summer.

Photography © Getty Images