Brendon McCullum: New Zealand lost to "outstanding" Australia

Captain Brendon McCullum has conceded that his New Zealand side were defeated by an "outstanding" Australia team during the final of the World Cup earlier today.

The Kiwis were bowled out for just 183 runs during their innings - a target that their fellow co-hosts reached in Melbourne with 101 balls and seven wickets to spare.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, McCullum said: "It's been one hell of a ride for us.

"We played some outstanding cricket, but we ran into an outstanding Australia team tonight who continue to set the way in world cricket."

New Zealand had never previously reached the final of the competition.