England stars left visibly emotional during TV interviews after World Cup final win

Sadia Kabeya and Natasha Hunt were both visibly emotional after England won the Women’s World Cup with a dominant display against Canada. John Mitchell’s side scored five tries as they ran out 33-13 winners at Allianz Stadium.

Four of England’s five tries were scored by their forwards, including two for number eight Alex Matthews. While Asia Hogan-Rochester scored in either half for Kevin Rouet’s Canada side.

England headed into the game with the baggage of a dismal record in World Cup finals that has produced just one victory in six consecutive appearances, but Mitchell’s side are now number one in the world and have won 33 games on the trot.

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Kabeya was named Player of the Match, and she told the BBC after the game: "It's amazing, thank you to everyone that came out here today. You are our 16th man on the pitch. We are just so, so grateful."

On being world champions, Kabeya added: "Honestly, it sounds amazing, it's a pinch me moment. It has been years in the making. I am happy we could pull it off for you guys.

"All props to Canada, they are a great side and put up a great fight but we have been working really hard, did all the right things today and that showed in our game."

Hunt, also speaking to BBC Sport, admitted: "This is unimaginable. I am so proud of the girls. I hope this stays for women's rugby."

She also paid tribute to Mitchell, saying: "He has just kept it simple. He has been honest, sometimes brutally honest but I like that.

“He has got this week bang on. We played on the 16th member of the team - the crowd.I don't think any of us could have imagined it would have been like this. That is a testament to everyone behind the scenes and those who turned up today."

While Abbie Ward, who scored England's fourth try, said: "Honestly as soon as the whistle went I just burst into tears. Its' truly been such a special day.

“A sold-out crowd at Twickenham. It was electric, in front of friends, family, it's amazing. The last final loss, that was then. This is a new team, this is a new chapter of women's rugby.

“It wasn't about righting wrongs. This is our little moment today. It's about this, this team has been special, what we've done has been special. The support, the crowd, the friends and family involved, it's been magical."