Sir Ian Botham backs New Zealand for Cricket World Cup win

Sir Ian Botham has predicted that New Zealand will beat Australia in the final of the Cricket World Cup tomorrow.

The co-hosts will go head to head at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with the Black Caps having already beaten Australia in the group stage of the tournament.

The former England Test captain told Sky Sports News: "It's the final everybody wanted. The Trans-Tasman final, it doesn't get much better than that.

"I think it will be a very close game. Australia are the favourites but that also means they will be under a bit more pressure at home.

"New Zealand have played very well throughout the tournament, have not lost a game and have the edge knowing they have beaten Australia already in this tournament. I backed them before the start of the tournament and there is no reason to change that view. They can win it but it will be tight, really tight."

Australia captain Michael Clarke has announced that he will retire from one-day cricket after the final.