ODI World Cups: 5 biggest moments in tournament history
The cricketing world eagerly awaits the 13th edition of the ODI World Cup in 2023, and as we all think about the upcoming tournament, it’s the perfect time to recall the top moments that have etched themselves into the history of this prestigious event.
5. Klusener-Donald Run-Out Drama (1999):
In the 1999 World Cup semi-final, South Africa found themselves needing just nine runs with one wicket in hand to secure a place in the final. Lance Klusener, known for his explosive hitting, was on strike.
Klusener smashed back-to-back fours. Now, one run was needed off three balls, but fast bowler, Alan Donald was run out, and Australia advanced to the final. This was yet another heartbreak for the Proteas in a major event.
4. Malinga’s Magical Four in Four (2007):
Lasith Malinga, the Sri Lankan speedster, etched his name in the record books during the 2007 World Cup. In a crucial match against South Africa, he took four wickets in four consecutive deliveries, becoming the first player to achieve this feat in international cricket and the World Cup. His incredible performance turned the game in Sri Lanka’s favour and remains a standout moment in World Cup history.
3. Kapil Dev’s Spectacular Catch (1983):
India’s journey to their first World Cup victory in 1983 was punctuated by a breathtaking moment of brilliance from Kapil Dev. In the final against the mighty West Indies, Kapil Dev took a running catch to dismiss the dangerous Sir Vivian Richards, who was threatening to snatch the game away from India with his quickfire 33 runs. This catch shifted the momentum, and India went on to win the World Cup, with Mohinder Amarnath’s superb bowling earning him the Player of the Match award.
2. Ben Stokes’ Controversial Deflection (2019):
The 2019 World Cup final between England and New Zealand was an absolute thriller. Ben Stokes played a heroic innings for England, scoring 84 runs. However, controversy erupted when Stokes accidentally deflected a throw from the deep with his bat, resulting in a crucial boundary. The match ended in a tie, leading to a Super Over, which was also tied as England won on the basis of boundaries count.
1. MS Dhoni’s Winning Six (2011):
The best moment of the 2011 World Cup was MS Dhoni’s unforgettable six against Sri Lanka in the final. India, chasing 275, was in trouble when Lasith Malinga dismissed Sachin Tendulkar
and Virender Sehwag early. Gautam Gambhir played a crucial knock, but it was Dhoni’s unbeaten 91, culminating in a match-winning six when four runs were needed, that etched itself into cricketing folklore. India lifted the World Cup on home soil, ending a 28-year-long wait for their second World Cup triumph.
