At its finale, the Cricket World Cup delivers a local derby

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — After 48 matches involving teams from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe cricket's global showcase has distilled itself into a local derby.

Australia and New Zealand welcomed 12 other nations to the Cricket World Cup but saved the final for themselves, ensuring Sunday's championship match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground will feature the tournament's two best teams and will be permeated by one of world sport's most heart-felt rivalries.

In trying to characterize that rivalry, commentators have evoked a game of backyard cricket between siblings: the older brother (Australia) accustomed to dominating the younger; the younger brother (New Zealand) eager for a win to further establish its own identity and to win its rival's respect.