October 06, 2009

Australia claimed their second successive ICC Champions Trophy title as Shane Watson smacked an unbeaten century in a comfortable six-wicket victory over New Zealand at Centurion.

Australia had a huge fight on their hands at 2-6 against some inspired Kiwi bowling, but Watson again kept a cool head to steer Australia (4-206) side past New Zealand's 9-200.

Watson (105 not out) hit successive sixes off spinner Jeetan Patel to score the winning runs - with 28 balls remaining - and reach three figures in style.

After Australia's early wickets, Watson and Cameron White (62) restored order with a partnership of 128, and despite wickets to Kyle Mills (3-27), the world champions were never in trouble.

Australia's victory created history, as they are now the only nation to have won this event twice, following their triumph in India three years ago.

Ponting was delighted his side had earned reward for their hard work since the Ashes defeat in England, and satisfied with such an emphatic showing.

"I'm ecstatic," he said.

"To come away with a win and win a tournament as big as this one is is great reward for all the guys, whether it's coaches or players who have been around the group for the past six or seven weeks.

"As soon as the one-dayers kicked off in England it was all about playing well there, but we always had one eye on the Champions Trophy and wanted to perform well in this tournament.

"Five months on the road has been a long time for the boys, it's been hard work and we've played a lot of cricket.

"We've had our ups and downs over the past five months as well, but to finish off the way we have here and to win the tournament the way we have, there'll be some big celebrations I'm sure.

"It's the second-biggest one-day tournament that you play, there's nothing else outside a World Cup, so it's a very special achievement."

Their win also earned a major windfall, as the team pocketed $US2 million ($A2.31 million). As runner-up, New Zealand earned $US1 million ($A1.15 million).