Kent duo Charlotte Edwards and Lydia Greenway are on top of the world after helping the England women’s team to cricketing glory in Australia on Sunday.

England beat New Zealand by four wickets in Sydney to win the World Cup for the third time, the first on foreign soil, leaving skipper Edwards from Hartley Invicta overjoyed.

"I am absolutely delighted, I think it was something I have always dreamed of doing and I have finally done it," she said.

"What an amazing trophy to be holding and what a great day for cricket."

Chasing 167 for victory after Nicky Shaw, a late replacement for the injured Jenny Gunn, had taken an impressive three wickets in her first three overs to finish with 4-34, England were coasting thanks to good scores from openers Sarah Taylor (39) and Caroline Atkins (40).

They wobbled slightly as both Edwards (10) and Greenway (8) had disappointing spells at the crease, but with enough wickets in hand the hard work had been done and they rattled off the 28 runs needed for victory without fuss.

The win is the latest international success for Edwards and Greenway, who were part of the England squad which retained the Ashes, also in Australia, last year.