Cricket World Cup 2019: Eoin Morgan admits England were lucky to beat Blackcaps

England captain Eoin Morgan believed his side's shot at World Cup glory had gone, before some fortunate luck helped them beat the Blackcaps in the Cricket World Cup final at Lord's.

The Blackcaps had England on the ropes, as Morgan's men needed 39 runs off the final 23 balls to win with four wickets in hand.

But a masterclass from NZ-born man-of-the-match Ben Stokes (82no) put England back into the match, thanks to some fortunate moments in the closing stages.

Stokes got a six, after Trent Boult carried a catch over the boundary rope, while in the final over, a deflection off the all-rounder's bat went for four overthrows, as well as their two runs between the wickets.

England tied New Zealand's target of 241 off 50 overs and the match went to a 'super over'.

Both sides could not be separated on runs either, after hitting 15 off an extra six balls each, so England won by virtue of scoring more boundary fours and sixes - 26 to New Zealand's 17 - in the entire match.

"Absolutely unbelievable," said Morgan. "I still can't quite believe it, that's why I'm carrying the trophy around.

"I can't believe we got over the line. I thought it was over when Chris Woakes got out, but then Liam Plunkett got us back into the game and we had the rub of the green, with Ben's overthrows - I don't know how you described that on commentary.

"In the super over, Ben continued to have a great day out with Jos [Buttler]. It's a day to remember.

"Today was won by the finest of margins. It could have gone either way, but luckily, it went ours."

Morgan then paid his respects to New Zealand, with a heartfelt comment about their World Cup campaign.

"New Zealand were outstanding during the group stages and the semi-final against India.

"They're a strong team and the most admirable thing is the way they played the cricket.

"They do it in a fashion that you'd have no qualms in turning around to your kids and say 'please idolise these guys' - they're very admirable."

Newshub.