Mutola, who led from the start before picking up the pace at the bell to win an unprecedented seventh world indoor athletics title in Moscow, Russia, on Sunday, flew directly to Melbourne after the championships to defend her Commonwealth Games title.

"Now, I'm full of new motivation to continue my career," said African veteran told reporters. "Already on Monday I'm flying to Melbourne to compete in the Commonwealth Games."

"It was a lot harder than I expected, but I believed I could win, although I must admit the Russian had a very fast time and that was a warning."

After defeating Mutola in her semi-finals and clocking the fastest time going into Sunday's deciding race, Sinclair was a hot favourite to win a medal and she didn't disappoint.

Following a national mark of 2:00.06 to win her semis, Sinclair, a 25-year-old converted middle-distance runner, clocked another national record of 1:59.54 to finish second to Mutola's 1:58.90.

Winning a championships gold medal is the dream of every athlete, but Sinclair, who won Jamaica's only medal in the meet said, "I am just happy to win a medal."

Following the Jamaican and Mozambican to the finish line was reigning World and Olympic silver medallist Hasna Benhassi from Morocco in a season's best 2:00.34 and she was not happy.

"I'm really disappointed. Third place is far below my expectations," the Moroccan told reporters after the race. "I didn't manage to position myself well in the pack and sneak out at the right time."

Mutola, who has claimed the last three straight world indoor titles, will now seek her third straight Commonwealth title.

Defending silver medallist Diane Cummins of Canada is expected to be among the medallists in the event also. She clocked 1:58.82 to snatch the runner-up spot at Manchester in 2002, and has already registered creditable 2:01.95.

Great Britain's Susan Scott (2:01.51) and Australian Suzy Walsham (2:01.85) are the two top runners in the outdoor campaign so far.