Theresa May has offered her thanks to England's triumphant Cricket World Cup team which she said "represents modern Britain".

The Prime Minister met the players in Downing Street and hailed their ability and character after their nail-biting victory over New Zealand on Sunday.

After the diverse team joked that they had not only the luck of the Irish but Allah on their side, Mrs May praised the encapsulation of modern Britain in the winning squad.

Players including Andrew Flintoff and Kevin Pietersen hit the headlines for their indulgence the day after their historic victory.

Michael Vaughan's squad looked the worse for wear when they arrived at Downing Street. Several wore sunglasses to protect tired eyes as they met Tony Blair, his wife Cherie and children Euan and Nicky.

Pietersen admitted it was all a blur, saying: "I don't remember much of it, to be honest. I don't even remember shaking the Prime Minister's hand."