Aussies on top of world as old foe crushed

Player of the tournament Alyssa Healy made 22 off 20 balls to start Australia’s innings, but it was Lanning and explosive 21-year-old Gardner who steered Australia home in the 16th over.

Lanning, 26, batted with a steely resolve. She played some beautiful shots but, for the most part, simply dug in for her side.

“Everyone was willing to sort of sacrifice their own game to try and win the game for the team and I think that’s why we’re standing here today as champions,” Lanning said.

“Because everyone willing to be selfless was and really just do what they can to win.”

A big-hitting cameo from No.3 Gardner — she smashed three sixes on her way to 33 off 26 balls after a slow start — and her 3-22 won her the player of the final award.

Lanning said she hoped the victory would have a positive effect on the per- ception of Australian cricket.

“It has been a tough time for Australian cricket, but we felt that we could really lift the spirits by playing the way we do, being ourselves and enjoying what we do,” she said.

“The success came along with that and hopefully there was a lot of people watching back home and hopefully we’ve been able to make them proud because we’ve enjoyed putting on a show for them.

“We’re just looking forward to getting home now and celebrating what’s been a great tournament.”

It is Australia’s fourth World T20 win in six editions of the tournament.