Britain's Prime Minister Tony Blair sent his congratulations to the England team on being crowned world champions after their 20-17 victory over Australia in Sydney today.
Blair, who watched the nail-biting World Cup final at his country residence Chequers, said: "This was a fantastic day for English rugby and for England. The team can be proud of their performance, their spirit, and above all their character."
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England defeated the defending champions and hosts in a dramatic final, with a drop goal by talismanic flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson seconds from the end of extra time proving the difference between the sides.
"It was a victory they worked for and the whole country can be proud of them," said Blair in a statement.
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