Watson steers Australia home

Cricket : Australia were crowned Champions Trophy winners tonight after an unbeaten century from Shane Watson led them to a …

Cricket: Australia were crowned Champions Trophy winners tonight after an unbeaten century from Shane Watson led them to a six-wicket victory over underdogs New Zealand at Centurion.

The all-rounder, who also hit a hundred against England in the semi-final three days ago, survived an early onslaught by the Black Caps’ bowlers before finishing with 105 from 129 balls as the defending champions cruised past the 201 target with 28 balls to spare.

Watson was given good support by Cameron White (62) in what proved a decisive century partnership, after the early losses of Tim Paine and captain Ricky Ponting had left their side on six for two.

The pair put on 128 runs together for the third wicket to set Australia on their way to becoming the first country ever to win the title twice.