The ICC Cricket World Cup has long been a stage for cricketing glory, where legends are born and epic moments are etched into the sport’s history. As cricket fans and punters across the globe eagerly await the 2023 Cricket World Cup, let’s take a look at the 10 of the greatest moments that have graced the Cricket World Cup over the years.
10. Martin Crowe’s Grace (1992)
In the 1992 World Cup, New Zealand’s Martin Crowe exhibited elegance and grace in his batting. His tournament tally of 456 runs and tactical brilliance as captain guided New Zealand to their first-ever World Cup semi-final appearance.
9. Lasith Malinga’s Four Wickets in Four Balls (2007)
Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga stunned the cricketing world with his extraordinary spell against South Africa in the 2007 World Cup. He became the first bowler in World Cup history to take four wickets in four balls, leaving spectators in awe of his yorker mastery.
8. Glenn McGrath’s 2007 Mastery
Glenn McGrath’s performance in the 2007 World Cup was nothing short of remarkable. He scalped 26 wickets in the tournament, leading Australia to their third consecutive title. His incredible consistency and dominance with the ball earned him the Player of the Tournament award.
7. Ben Stokes’ Heroics (2019)
In the 2019 World Cup final between England and New Zealand, Ben Stokes played a pivotal role in England’s dramatic victory. His unbeaten 84 and the subsequent Super Over will forever be remembered as one of the most thrilling moments in cricket history.
6. MS Dhoni’s World Cup-Winning Six (2011)
In the 2011 final, India needed four runs to win. Captain MS Dhoni, with nerves of steel, lofted a six over long-on to secure India’s second World Cup victory on home soil. His iconic celebration with the bat held high is etched in cricketing folklore.
5. Adam Gilchrist’s Batting Exhibition (2007)
In the 2007 World Cup final, Adam Gilchrist’s audacious 149 off just 104 balls against Sri Lanka paved the way for Australia’s third consecutive title. His fearless stroke play and aggressive approach set a new benchmark for wicketkeeper-batsmen.
4. Sachin Tendulkar’s Desert Storm (1998)
During the 1998 tournament, Sachin Tendulkar’s “Desert Storm” innings against Australia remains etched in memory. In a high-pressure match, Tendulkar’s breathtaking 143 guided India to victory and showcased his unparalleled mastery of the game.
3. South Africa vs. Australia Tie (1999)
In a semi-final clash, South Africa needed one run off the final ball to reach the final. A mix-up led to a dramatic run-out, resulting in a tie. The ‘Super Six’ rule came into play, and Australia advanced to the final, leaving South Africa heartbroken.
2. Javed Miandad’s Last-Ball Six (1992)
The 1992 World Cup final between Pakistan and England witnessed one of the most iconic moments in cricket history. Needing four runs off the last ball, Javed Miandad smashed a six off the final delivery to seal Pakistan’s maiden World Cup triumph.
1. Kapil Dev’s Heroics (1983)
In the final of the 1983 Cricket World Cup, India faced the mighty West Indies. With India struggling at 183 for 6, Kapil Dev played an innings for the ages. His scintillating 175 not out turned the match on its head and led India to a historic victory, marking their first-ever World Cup win.