London: England swept into their first World Cup final for the first time in 27 years as the hosts crushed Australia by eight wickets on Thursday to book a clash with New Zealand in Sunday’s title match.

Eoin Morgan’s side ended Australia’s bid to retain the World Cup in ruthless fashion at Edgbaston, dismissing their old rivals for 223 and then powering to victory in 32.1 overs thanks to Jason Roy’s blistering 85. England will head to Lord’s bidding to win the 50-over World Cup for the first time, with 2015 runners-up New Zealand, who they thrashed by 119 runs in the group stage, standing between Morgan’s men and the trophy. 

England, who were in the semi-finals for the first time since 1992, have lost all three of their World Cup finals.