For the second straight 50-over World Cup, the hosts were all set to lift the title. Australia and New Zealand had made it to the title clash and as co-hosts, both had an excellent chance of winning the 2015 trophy.
But as has happened in the past, the Australians brought their A-game to the final which was held on March 29 in Melbourne.
New Zealand had emerged as the most exciting team of the tournament, charging to the final on the back of some fearless cricket championed by captain Brendon McCullum. But their entire gameplay revolved around McCullum and that gave Australia a chance to settle the match in the first over itself.
Left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc was on the money from the first delivery, making the ball move late. McCullum tried to force the issue but Starc was operating at a different level. The fifth ball of the final was a fast and swinging delivery pitched right up to the batsman. McCullum was too late in his shot and the ball crashed into the stumps before his bat came down completely.
Still, New Zealand did not lose hope, with Ross Taylor (40) and Grant Elliott (83) resurrecting the innings. The Kiwis were back on track at 150-3 at the beginning of the 36th over with a total in excess of 250 well within sights.
Then came the collapse. Left-arm seamer James Faulkner got Taylor caught behind off a slower ball and castled Corey Anderson for a duck.
Elliott was caught behind off the bowling of Faulkner and just like that, the Kiwis were reduced to 171-8. Veteran left-arm quick Mitchell Johnson finished with 3-30, including the wicket of Kane Williamson, while Faulkner picked up 3-36 and Starc ended up with 2-20 as New Zealand were bowled out for just 183 with five overs to spare.
The Black Caps still had some hope after opener Aaron Finch was dismissed for nought. But David Warner (45), Steve Smith (56 not out) and captain Michael Clarke (74) ensured Australia won the title by seven wickets.
After the defeat, McCullum said he was proud of the brand of cricket his team had pioneered.
“This is what you ask for as a cricketer, we've had the opportunity. We didn't lift the trophy but no regrets. The brand of cricket we've played … we walk away with our heads held high.”
The template set by McCullum and New Zealand was later perfected by England as they went on to win the 2019 World Cup at home, once again with New Zealand as the losing finalists.
