?Australia and West Indies chase history in title clash
Lanning’s 55 off 50 balls against England showed the Australian captain had recovered from a stomach bug and will be expected to once again lead from the front at the Eden Gardens.
The West Indies will also be wary of medium-pacer Megan Schutt, who claimed two for 15 against England and is her side’s leading bowler with seven wickets.
Lanning, however, said three titles did not guarantee a fourth one, adding it will all depend on how the team played on Sunday.
“I have always said we are not here to defend the title, we are here to win the 2016 event,” the Australian captain said. “Tomorrow is a new day and we need to start from scratch. What has happened before does not matter.
“No doubt we love winning. We are a competitive side, but each tournament is different. This one can’t be compared to the previous three tournaments.
“The hunger in this side is as high and good as it has ever been. We can’t wait to get in there and play a tough game against the West Indies.
“Whatever happened in the past will not count for anything. The team that settles quickly and gets into the rhythm of the game will do well.”
Lanning said the entire team was “excited” about playing the final at the iconic Eden Gardens.
“It’s a big occasion, no doubt about that,” she said. “These are the days we train for and play for. We are very excited to play a World Cup final at such a famous ground. It does not get bigger than this.”
Squads (to be selected from):AUSTRALIA - Meg Lanning (capt.); Kristen Beams; Alex Blackwell; Nicola Carey, Lauren Cheatle; Sarah Coyte; Rene Farrell; Holly Ferling; Alyssa Healy; Jess Jonassen; Beth Mooney; Erin Osborne; Ellyse Perry; Megan Schutt and Elyse Villani.
Coach- Matthew Mott
WEST INDIES - Stafanie Taylor (capt.); Merissa Aguilleira; Shemaine Campbelle; Shamilia Connell; Britney Cooper; Deandra Dottin; Afy Fletcher; Stacy-Ann King; Kyshona Knight; Kycia Knight; Hayley Matthews; Anisa Mohammed; Shaquana Quintyne; Shakera Selman and Tremayne Smartt.
Coach - Vasbert Drakes
On-field umpires - Aleem Dar and Richard Illingworth
Third umpire – Llong
Fourth umpire - S Ravi
Match referee - Andy Pycroft