Top 10 Greatest Moments in the ICC World Cup history

Imagine yourself transported to the thrilling moments of the ICC World Cup, where history is made and legends are born. Get ready to relive the top 10 greatest moments that have defined this prestigious tournament. From MS Dhoni’s iconic winning six in 2011 to Kapil Dev’s heroic performance in 1983, each moment is etched in the annals of cricket history. Brace yourself for an exhilarating journey through the most electrifying moments in ICC World Cup history.

Top 10 Greatest Moments in the ICC World Cup history

Relive the top 10 greatest moments in the ICC Cricket World Cup history which no cricket fan can ever forget. 

World Cup Winning Six by MS Dhoni, CWC 2011

Did you know that MS Dhoni’s iconic six in the 2011 World Cup final sealed India’s victory and ended their 28-year World Cup drought? It was a moment that will forever be etched in the annals of cricket history. The match, held at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, was a high-pressure encounter between India and Sri Lanka. Chasing a target of 275, India found themselves in a precarious position at 114 for 3 when Dhoni walked in to bat. With calmness and composure, he built a crucial partnership with Gautam Gambhir, stabilizing the innings. As the match neared its climax, Dhoni took charge. In the 49th over, he struck a humongous six off Nuwan Kulasekara’s bowling, sending the ball soaring into the stands. The crowd erupted in jubilation as India inched closer to victory. Dhoni finished the game with a flourish, scoring an unbeaten 91 off just 79 deliveries. His winning six not only secured India’s World Cup triumph but also solidified his legacy as one of the greatest captains in cricket history.

Ben Stokes Accidental Deflection, CWC 2019

Fans were astounded when Ben Stokes accidentally deflected the ball to the boundary, resulting in vital runs that tied the game and set the stage for a historic Super Over in the 2019 Cricket World Cup. It was a moment that showcased the unpredictable nature of cricket and the fine margins that can determine the outcome of a match. In the final over of England’s chase, Stokes dived to complete a second run, but as fate would have it, the throw from the deep struck his bat and raced away to the boundary. The four runs added to England’s total and brought them level with New Zealand‘s score. This unexpected turn of events not only dramatically changed the match but also made it one of the most memorable moments in World Cup history.

The accidental deflection not only showcased Stokes’ determination and athleticism but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of cricket and how the smallest of incidents can have a profound impact on the outcome of a game. The tied result led to a thrilling Super Over, where England ultimately emerged victorious, claiming their first-ever Cricket World Cup title.

MS Dhoni Run Out by Martin Guptill, CWC 2019

Fans were devastated when Martin Guptill’s direct hit resulted in MS Dhoni being run out during the 2019 Cricket World Cup, ending India’s hopes in the semi-final clash against New Zealand. It was a moment that will forever be etched in the minds of Indian cricket fans. 

With 25 needed off 10 balls, Dhoni, the calm and composed finisher, tried to take a risky second run. As he sprinted towards the striker’s end, Guptill unleashed a rocket throw that found its target with pinpoint accuracy. The bails were dislodged, the stadium erupted in celebration, but for Indian fans, it was a heart-wrenching sight. Dhoni, who had been the backbone of the Indian batting line-up for years, was inching away from extending his team’s World Cup campaign to another Final. 

This run out marked the end of an era, as the legend bid farewell to international cricket a year later. Despite the disappointment of this moment, Dhoni’s contribution to Indian cricket will never be forgotten. His leadership, batting prowess, and incredible ability to finish matches will always be revered.

Australia’s Historic Hatrick & Gilchrist Brilliance, CWC 2007 

We all witnessed the breathtaking brilliance of Australia’s historic hat-trick and Adam Gilchrist’s batting prowess during the ICC World Cup in 2007. In the final against Sri Lanka, Gilchrist unleashed an onslaught on the opposition bowlers, smashing an incredible 149 runs. His innings was filled with aggression and power, as he struck 13 boundaries and eight sixes, leaving the Sri Lankan bowlers utterly helpless. Gilchrist’s masterclass guided Australia to their third consecutive World Cup victory, a feat that has not been replicated since.

This moment in cricket history holds great significance, as it solidified Australia’s dominance in the tournament. They became the first and only team to achieve a hat-trick of World Cup titles, a testament to their exceptional skill and teamwork. Gilchrist’s innings, in particular, showcased his ability to take control of a game and single-handedly dismantle the opposition. His aggressive approach and clean hitting made him a nightmare for the bowlers, setting a new standard for opening batsmen in the limited-overs format.

Herschelle Gibbs Hits 6 Sixes in 2007, CWC 2007 

Gibbs, along with his powerful batting skills, showcased his immense talent and made history by hitting six sixes in the 2007 ICC World Cup. During a group game in Basseterre, he became the first player to achieve this feat in International Cricket. The unfortunate bowler on the receiving end of this record was Daan van Bunge, a leg-spinner who had no answer to Gibbs’ relentless assault. The match was reduced to 40 overs each, but that did not stop South Africa from making an impressive total of 353-4. In his innings, Gibbs scored 72 runs off just 40 balls, with only one other maximum before being dismissed by Luuk van Troost. 

This breathtaking display of power hitting not only left the opposition stunned but also etched Gibbs’ name in the history books of the World Cup. His achievement remains an iconic moment in the tournament’s history, highlighting his exceptional talent and ability to dominate the game with his batting prowess.

Glenn McGrath’s Magical spell, CWC 2007

Glenn McGrath’s magical spell during the 2007 ICC World Cup will forever be etched in the memories of fans around the world. McGrath’s performance in the tournament was nothing short of extraordinary, as he showcased his immense skills and proved why he was one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time.

Throughout the World Cup, McGrath displayed remarkable consistency and dominance with the ball. His ability to swing the ball both ways and hit the right lengths made him a nightmare for the opposition batsmen. McGrath scalped a total of 26 wickets in the tournament, leading the Australian team to their third consecutive title. His wickets came at an average of just 13.73, with an impressive economy rate of 3.46.

What truly set McGrath’s spell apart was his ability to deliver under pressure. In the final against Sri Lanka, McGrath bowled with precision and skill, taking three crucial wickets. He dismissed the dangerous Marvan Atapattu and Chamara Silva, and also claimed the wicket of Mahela Jayawardene, who had been in sublime form throughout the tournament. McGrath’s spell played a vital role in Australia’s victory in the final and earned him the Player of the Tournament award.

Glenn McGrath’s performance in the 2007 World Cup showcased his remarkable talent and cemented his status as one of the all-time greats in cricket. His magical spell will forever be remembered as a defining moment in the history of the ICC World Cup.

Wasim Akram Magical Spell Against England, CWC 1992

Witness the brilliance of Wasim Akram’s magical spell against England in the 1992 Cricket World Cup as he dismantled the English batting lineup with his exceptional skills. Pakistan’s innings had been given a boost by Akram’s quickfire 33 runs, but it was his bowling performance that truly stole the show. England had started their chase well, but Akram had other plans. With the English batsmen struggling to handle his pace and swing, he wreaked havoc on their middle order. Akram dismissed the dangerous Allan Lamb and the new batsman Chris Lewis in consecutive deliveries, both of them bowled on the angle. This double blow shattered England’s hopes of a comeback and put Pakistan firmly in control of the match. It was a defining moment in the final, as Akram’s spell turned the tide in Pakistan’s favor. His exceptional skills and ability to deliver under pressure played a crucial role in guiding Pakistan to a memorable victory. It was a masterclass in swing bowling that showcased Akram’s immense talent and cemented his place as one of the greatest cricketers in World Cup history.

South Africa vs. Australia Tie, CWC 1998

The semi-final clash between South Africa and Australia is etched in cricket history as one of the most dramatic moments in the ICC World Cups history. South Africa needed just one run off the final ball to secure their spot in the final. The tension was palpable as Lance Klusener, the hero of the tournament for South Africa, faced off against Damien Fleming of Australia. However, a mix-up between Klusener and Allan Donald resulted in a run-out, leaving the match tied and the crowd stunned. The ‘Super Six’ rule was then introduced, which stated that whichever team had a higher run rate throughout the tournament would advance to the final. Unfortunately for South Africa, Australia had a better run rate, and they were heartbreakingly knocked out of the World Cup. This match showcased the fine margins in cricket and the cruel nature of the game. It remains a haunting moment for South Africa and a testament to the unpredictability of the sport.

Kapil Dev’s Heroics, CWC 1983

In the group match against Zimbabwe, team India falter for 9 runs for 4 wickets down and then the fifth wicket was lost on just 17 runs. It was then Kapil Dev who played one of the greatest ODI innings of that time by scoring un unbeaten 175. India won the match 31 runs and then headed into the Semi-Final and they went on to become the Champions by defeating West Indies at Lord’s in the Final. 

His knock of 175-not-out was nothing short of extraordinary. He single-handedly took the game away from the West Indies and turned the tide in India’s favor. His innings was filled with sheer determination, skill, and a touch of brilliance. It was a masterclass in batting, as he displayed a wide range of shots and defied all odds.

His innings not only changed the course of the match but also sparked a revolution in Indian cricket. It gave the nation belief and ignited a passion for the game that still burns bright today. Kapil Dev became a national hero and his innings became a symbol of hope and inspiration for generations to come.

Sachin Tendulkar’s ‘Desert Storm’ in 1998

In a high-stakes encounter against Australia, Tendulkar’s extraordinary innings of 143 not only guided India to victory but also left an indelible mark on the history of One Day Internationals. The match, played in Sharjah, witnessed Tendulkar’s sheer brilliance as he battled against both the opposition and the scorching desert heat.

Facing a mammoth target of 273 runs, Tendulkar’s innings was nothing short of a masterclass. He exhibited impeccable technique, remarkable timing, and an array of strokes that showcased his unmatched skillset. The Australian bowlers, known for their dominance, were left helpless in the face of Tendulkar’s onslaught. He effortlessly dispatched the ball to all parts of the ground, treating the spectators to a spectacle they would never forget.

What made Tendulkar’s ‘Desert Storm’ even more remarkable was the fact that he battled severe cramps and exhaustion due to the extreme weather conditions. Despite the physical challenges, he soldiered on, displaying immense determination and mental strength. The crowd, sensing something special, erupted in a frenzy of excitement and support.

Tendulkar’s knock not only propelled India to victory but also cemented his status as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. His ‘Desert Storm’ innings will forever be etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide, serving as a testament to his unparalleled talent and his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered the most.