Australia has been crowned Great Britain Cup champions after defeating the host nation in Cardiff, Wales.

Currently ranked number two in the world in wheechair rugby, the Australians secured the 59-50 victory against an impressive British side determined to win on their home turf.

But determination was not enough for the Brits, with Australia edging out their rivals in what Australian Wheelchair Rugby Head Coach Brad Dubberley described as an extremely tight match.

“In the final GB played exceptionally,” said Dubberley.

“So for us to win by the margin that we did says a lot about our team - where we are at and where we are heading.

“The GB Cup was a great event for our team. It was a performance where every athlete played and positively contributed in every game.”

The Australians were undefeated throughout the tournament, comfortably winning each of their pool games and going on to defeat Japan, currently ranked third in the world, in the semi-final.

According to Dubberley, his team’s outstanding performances at this tournament would not have been possible just a year earlier.

“As a team we have grown so much over the past year and we definitely know we have a special team on our hands,” he said.

“In the semi against Japan, we rested Ryley Batt for most of the game. Ryley is one of our most dominant players and to rest him and still win comfortably is testament to the outstanding work and training the entire team has been putting in.”

Australia will now head to the Asia Oceania Paralympic qualifying tournament in Korea in November as favourites but will face a significant challenge from Japan as both top ranked teams vie for Paralympic qualification.

“This event has been amazing for us in our prep for Asia Oceania Paralympic qualifier and of course London next year,” said Dubberley.

Australia must finish in the top two at November’s Paralympic qualifier to secure a place at next year’s London Paralympic Games.