 The 2003 event was hosted by Australia , although it was originally intended to be held jointly with New Zealand . England emerged as champions defeating Australia in extra time . England 's win was unique in that it broke the southern hemisphere 's dominance in the event . Such was the celebration of England 's victory , that an estimated 750 @,@ 000 people gathered in central London to greet the team , making the day the largest sporting celebration of its kind ever in the United Kingdom . 
