Paul Collingwood hails England squad

Captain Paul Collingwood has praised his side which brought an end to England’s title drought in international limited over tournaments.



England produced a clinical all-round display to thrash the previously unbeaten Australia by seven wickets at Kensington Oval in Barbados yesterday to win the World 20/20 Championship.



Collingwood says it’s a very special moment and the players thoroughly deserved the victory.



England restricted Australia to 147 for six from their allotted 20 overs after they were sent in, with David Hussey top scoring with 59 from 54 balls.



In reply, England made light work of their target as opener Craig Kieswetter slammed 63 from 49 balls at the top of the order before Kevin Pietersen blasted a cameo 47 from 31 balls to formalize the victory with three overs to spare.



The victory ended England’s 35-year wait for a major title after reaching four previous finals but failing to convert.



Meanwhile, Australia Women returned later to beat New Zealand Women by three runs in the final of the Women’s 20/20 Championship.



Australia Women, choosing to bat, scored 106 for eight off their allotted 20 overs and then restricted New Zealand Women for 103 for six.