England hold nerve to win third World Cup title

FASTBowler Nicky Shaw responded magnificently to a last minute call-up when she starred in England’s thrilling four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the final of the ICCWomen’s World Cup 2009 at North Sydney Oval earlier today.

The 27 year old produced her career best performance of 4-34 as New Zealand were bowled out for 166 in 47.2 overs after electing to bat first.

In reply, England made hard work of the run chase slipping from 74-0 to 149-6, but held their nerve to achieve the victory target with 23 balls and four wickets to spare.

It is England’s third World Cup triumph, but the first outside England following victories in 1973 and 1993.

A delighted England captain, Charlotte Edwards (pictured celebrating with Claire Taylor), said: ’This is amazing. We have worked so hard to achieve what we did here today and I am so proud of all the girls.’

’We needed a good performance to beat this New Zealand side and that’s exactly what we produced.’

’I am almost lost for words. This is what I have dreamed of since I was a little girl and for it to happen is fantastic. I’ve been to four World Cups, so to finally win one is just incredible.’

’I’m delighted we have taken our form from last year into this competition and we’ll look to continue in the same vein for the ICCWomen’s World Cup Twenty20 in June and then for the Ashes and the ODI’s against Australia in the summer.’

New Zealand 166 all out off 47.2 overs. Doolan 48, Shaw 4-34, Marsh 2-34

England 167-6 off 46.1 overs. Atkins 40, S Taylor 39, CTaylor 21. Doolan 3-23

England won by 4 wickets.

Picture courtesy of Getty Images.