Shaw stars as English women lift a third World Cup

Published on Sunday 22 March 2009 21:53

ENGLAND beat New Zealand by four wickets yesterday to win the women's ICC World Cup for the third time.

England bowled out New Zealand for 166 in the 48th over before reaching their victory target with 23 balls to spare at North Sydney Oval. All-rounder Nicky Shaw, a last-minute replacement for Jenny Gunn, who aggravated a leg injury in the warm-up, was named player of the match after starring with both bat and ball.

Shaw captured four wickets in New Zealand's innings, then made an unbeaten 17 to guide England to victory after they lost 5-40 in a middle-order batting collapse.

England had previously won the women's World Cup in 1973 and 1993, both on home soil.

"It's an amazing feeling to be world champions," said England captain Charlotte Edwards.

"We told the girls they had to take their opportunities and Nicky has done that today with four wickets and seeing us home.

"This is a special moment and we'll remember this for the rest of our lives."

England and Wales Cricket Board chairman Giles Clarke said: "They have worked extremely hard for this day and they all deserve their success and recognition for this triumph."