The CUP FINALLY COMES HOME

After a nailbiting finish in the final of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, England were on the winning side for the first time. England’s young pacer Jofra Archer kept New Zealand to 15 runs, helping the hosts win on boundary-count. PHOTO: AFP

Wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler effected the last run-out before England captain Eoin Morgan proudly lifted the trophy. PHOTO: REUTERS

Jimmy Neesham had almost seen New Zealand home in the Super Over, bringing the equation down to two runs needed from one delivery. However, he was left distraught as Martin Guptill was found short while taking a second run off the final ball. PHOTO: REUTERS

The topsy-turvy final had its fair share of lucky/unlucky moments. During the last over of England’s innings, there was a huge touch of luck for England as Ben Stokes’ desperate dive at the non-strikers’ end saw the ball ricochet off his bat and go for four overthrows, keeping the hosts in the chase. PHOTO: REUTERS

New Zealand batsman Martin Guptill being consoled by Jimmy Neesham after England clinched the World Cup due to the boundary countback rule following tied Super Over. PHOTO: REUTERS

while Trent Boult’s judgement on a chance against Ben Stokes proved to be too costly. Photo: AFP

Skipper Kane Williamson was left to ponder what could have been. Photo: AFP