On This Day in 2003: Australia defeat India to win their third Cricket World Cup
On March 23, 2003, Australia clinched their third ICC Cricket World Cup title with a commanding 125-run victory over India at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The Australian team, led by captain Ricky Ponting, delivered an exceptional performance that underscored their dominance in international cricket at the time.
After winning the toss, India’s captain Sourav Ganguly opted to field first, a decision that quickly backfired. Australian openers Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden set an aggressive tone, forging a rapid partnership that laid a solid foundation. Gilchrist’s brisk 57 off 48 balls and Hayden’s supportive 37 established early momentum for Australia.
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The highlight of the innings was the partnership between Ricky Ponting and Damien Martyn. Ponting played a captain’s knock, amassing an unbeaten 140 runs off 121 balls, including eight sixes and four fours. Martyn complemented him perfectly, contributing an undefeated 88 runs. Their unbroken third-wicket partnership propelled Australia to a daunting total of 359 for 2 in their allotted 50 overs, setting a record for the highest team score in a World Cup final at that time.
Faced with a monumental target, India’s chase faltered early. Star batsman Sachin Tendulkar, who had been in sublime form throughout the tournament, was dismissed in the first over by Glenn McGrath for just 4 runs, dealing a significant blow to India’s hopes. Despite a valiant 82-run effort from Virender Sehwag, wickets tumbled at regular intervals, and India was eventually bowled out for 234 runs in 39.2 overs.
Australia’s comprehensive victory was a testament to their all-round excellence. Their bowlers, led by McGrath’s three-wicket haul, executed their plans meticulously, never allowing India’s batsmen to settle. This triumph marked Australia’s second consecutive World Cup win, having previously secured the title in 1999, and solidified their status as a cricketing powerhouse.
The 2003 World Cup final is often remembered for Ponting’s masterclass innings and Australia’s tactical brilliance. Their performance in this match set a benchmark for excellence in the World Cup finals and remains a significant chapter in cricketing history.
