No one could argue that England did not deserve their first ICC global title in Bridgetown. They were outstanding, as they have been throughout the tournament.

England had lost their previous World Cup finals in 1979, 1987 and 1992 as well as the 2004 Champions Trophy climax, but easily overcame their oldest foe with three overs to spare, proving they have mastered the T20 format.

It was no fluke they won the final, where as Australia top order flopped in the latter stages of the tournament only to be rescued by middle order, England was more consistent.

Opening batsmen Kieswetter and Lumb provided solid starts to an innings with Pietersen and Morgon to finish it off. Their bowling attack was strong throughout, first Broad then Sidebottom, all constructed beautifully around Graeme Swann. Swann again confirmed his excellence in all forms of the game.

England`s biggest stars were Craig Kieswetter, who was born in Johannesburg but qualified to play for England only three months ago. He was named man of the match for his 63 from 49 balls, while Kevin Pietersen was the tournament’s second-highest scorer with 248 runs. He made 47 from 31 balls to help.

What will this success mean for English cricket? Well, success in a Twenty20 tournament can’t be compared to a five-test-match series win over South Africa, but it will go along way.

England have more depth, variety and power than ever before which will come in handy in the fifty-over World Cup next year in Asia. It is more than waht South Africa can say.