New queens of cricket: A changing of the guard in Women's World Cup

The world order has shifted. Four-time champions England have packed their bags and mighty Australia, winners of the title a record seven times, are gone too. Come Sunday night, cricket will have new queens of the world. Whether it’s South Africa or India lifting the trophy, the balance of power has tilted, perhaps for the better.

- BY REX CLEMENTINE

Jemimah Rodrigues' stunning century sent seven-time champions Australia crashing out of the World Cup

For decades, England and Australia have ruled the women’s game with mechanical precision. Their cricket, though effective, often lacked sparkle, more substance than style. West Indies had style, in plenty, but no substance.

South Africa and India, on the other hand, bring flair to the crease. Tazmin Brits caresses the ball through covers like Kumar Sangakkara in full flow, while Harmanpreet Kaur’s inside-out drives are pure vintage Mahela Jayawardene. Their strokeplay is poetry in motion.