KNIGHT & ENGLAND TAKE HONOURS

THE England women’s cricket side have been handed a collection of New Year’s Honours gongs after lifting the World Cup.

Captain Heather Knight (left) and coach Mark Robinson have been awarded OBEs, while opening bat Tammy Beaumont and fast bowler Anya Shrubsole will be given MBEs.

The ECB’s director of women’s cricket, Clare Connor, has also upgraded her OBE to a CBE.

Batswoman Knight said: “We’ve had the most amazing year – one that will live in our memories forever – and we just hope it can grow our game.”

Sam Warburton (right) has been given an OBE after he led the British and Irish Lions to a 1-1 series draw with world champions New Zealand.

Paralympian Stef Reid, cycling coach Alan Davis, Manchester United’s Class of ’92 coach Eric Harrison, and Scotland and Lions rugby team doctor James Robson will become MBEs.

International Ski Federation secretary general Sarah Lewis and former Scotland rugby captain Ian McLauchlan will receive OBEs for services to sport.