New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has conceded England are the favourites to win Sunday’s World Cup final at Lord’s.

The Black Caps and tournament hosts England gathered semi-final victories over India and Australia, respectively, to advance to Sunday’s finale in London.

‘It’s shown over the years that anybody can beat anybody, regardless of breed of dog. I think England rightly deserve to be favourites,’ said Williamson.

‘I think anything is possible. It’s a really special occasion. All different thoughts can go through your mind but certainly where myself and the group come from, it’s keeping your feet on the ground and looking to play the sort of cricket to give yourself the best chance.

‘At the end of the day, it still is a cricket match.’

Williamson was captained by the veteran Brendon McCullum during the World Cup final in 2015, when New Zealand lost to Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Six of New Zealand’s current squad – Williamson, Ross Taylor, Martin Guptill, Tim Southee, Matt Henry and Trent Boult – played in the final four years ago.

‘We have a very different group, a slightly different vibe and ethos and how we operate. At the same time there’s a real commitment to that, which is a very positive thing,’ concluded Williamson.

‘Guys in this group won’t play in a World Cup all together again. We should truly appreciate the experiences we are about to have and enjoy the day.’

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