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Playing in the World Cup final is a proud moment for all the players. But these matches are highly intense, and those who absorb this pressure end up winning. You are at ease only if you are a neutral fan; otherwise, as a cricket fan supporting a particular team, you will also feel nervous energy.
If you love to add more thrill, engage in ODI World Cup betting during the mega event, starting on October 5.
Exciting ODI World Cup Finals
Cricket fans have witnessed some thrilling World Cup finals over the years. From India’s maiden World Cup triumph to England’s Super Over victory over New Zealand in 2019, let us look at the five most thrilling World Cup finishes ever.
● 1983 World Cup Final – India vs West Indies
India defeated the dominant West Indies team in the 1983 World Cup final in one of cricket’s greatest underdog success stories. The final took place on June 25 June at Lord’s. Batting first, India scored a below-par 183 runs.
The West Indian team was expected to chase the total effortlessly, but the spirited Indian bowling had other ideas. Mohinder Amarnath and Madan Lal picked three wickets each to restrict the mighty West Indian batting to 140, helping India win the World Cup by 43 runs.
Did you know that India leads the Asia Cup trophies? Check out the complete Asia Cup winners list 1984 to 2022
● 1987 WC Final: Australia – England
The 1987 World Cup final was a gripping contest between arch-rivals Australia and England. Eden Gardens hosted the final between the two powerhouses. Australia batted first and scored a competitive 253 runs. David Boon led the charge with 75 runs.
England scored 246 runs in the run chase, falling short by seven runs. Interestingly, Steve Waugh and Allan Border – the Australia captain – took two wickets each to help Australia win their first-ever World Cup.
● 1992 WC Final: Pakistan – England
The 1992 World Cup final was played in Melbourne between Pakistan and England. The Men in Green were under the leadership of inspirational Imran Khan, who instilled confidence in the team. Pakistan posted a decent 249 runs in the first innings.
In pursuit of 250, England was bowled out for 227 runs. Speedster Wasim Akram and spinner Mushtaq Ahmed picked up three wickets each. The Pakistan team lifted their first World Cup title. They also became the second Asian nation to win the title.
● 2011 WC Final: India – Sri Lanka
The 2011 World Cup final took place at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. India took on Sri Lanka in a highly intense match. Sri Lanka had the upper hand after scoring 274 runs in the first innings.
India’s chase started poorly, as Virender Sehwag was dismissed for a duck. Sachin Tendulkar also got out early. But Gautam Gambhir played a perfect anchor role, receiving excellent support from Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. India sealed the World Cup with ten balls to spare.
●2019 WC Final: England – New Zealand
The most keenly contested ODI World Cup final was played between England and New Zealand in 2019 at Lord’s. Batting first, New Zealand scored 241 runs. Ben Stokes’ heroics saw England forcing a tie and taking the match to the Super Over.
The match was tied again in the Super Over, and team England was declared the winner on the boundary count. Eoin Morgan’s men won their first-ever ODI World Cup, and that too at home made it even sweeter.
ODI World Cup Winner & Runner-up List
Concluding Thoughts
Cricket fans have witnessed some closely contested World Cup finals in the past. The 2023 World Cup final is also expected to be a close one, and who wouldn’t like a few thrills and spills?
