The world’s number one ranked team had edged hosts Canada 12-11 at the Pepsi Softball Centre in Whitehorse in the semi-finals to gain revenge on the nation who prevented them from taking the title two years ago.

It proved to be another testing encounter for New Zealand today as Australia pushed their rivals all the way and even had the lead for a period.

Campbell Enoka had given New Zealand the lead in the first inning, but their opponents jumped ahead in the third with a double score courtesy of Julian Jemmott and Ryan Sinclair to make it 2-1.

The lead was extended by one in the fourth after Liam O’Leary got round the bases.

However, New Zealand started turning proceedings around in the fifth as Enoka bagged his second run of the day.

They then completed the comeback as Joel Evans hit a huge shot with the bases loaded to put them 6-3 ahead.

Nick Shailes pulled one back for Australia, but they could come no closer to pulling off a victory.

New Zealand's victory means they have extended their record of winning the most titles in the competition.

Canada ended the tournament with bronze after being beaten 7-3 earlier in the day by Australia.