ENGLAND lost the ICC Women's World Cup final in Christchurch to Australia by 71 runs.

Nat Sciver had a great century for England but it wasn’t enough to stop her side from losing.

Australia's Meg Lanning took the winning wicket and caught in fine fashion to get Anya Shrubsole out.

Victorious Alyssa Shealy stated immediately after her side's victory: "It hasn't sunk yet.

It was a very special game of cricket with high scoring. We have been trying for this goal for a long time.

"It was quite cool to cross the finish line. We knew that we had a good sum after half the job.

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"But we knew that their line-up was peaking just at the right moment.

"The bowlers kept their nerves. Sciver gave a great performance and almost won the match.

"It was great to get out there and make a good sum on board.

"Proud to be a member of the whole batting group.

"I believe everyone worked hard to achieve this.

"It was a five year wait for a title people promised we would have.

"Will take a moment to reflect on the three months we have shared."