• By Manik Sharma
  • Tue, 19 Sep 2023 10:13 AM (IST)
  • Source:JND

The ICC ODI Cricket World Cup has been a pivotal event in the world of cricket since its inception in 1975. Over the years, it has witnessed remarkable moments, outstanding performances, and the rise of cricketing nations.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through the history of the ODI World Cup, from its inception to the last edition in 2019.

The ODI Cricket World Cup began in England in 1975 with each side playing 60 overs. Over time, it evolved, and in 1987, it ventured outside England, hosted by India and Pakistan, with overs reduced to 50 per side. West Indies had their dominance with two consecutive titles in the initial editions -- 1975 and 1979.

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Australia's dominance has been a hallmark of the multi-nation tournament, winning five titles in total, including three consecutive titles in 1999, 2003, and 2007. India and West Indies also hold multiple titles (2), with England winning their first-ever World Cup in 2019.

 

ODI Cricket World Cup winners from 1975 to 2019:

 

1975 - West Indies: The inaugural ODI Cricket World Cup took place in England, and it was the West Indies who emerged as the first champions. Their victory came in a thrilling final against Australia, where they clinched the title by a margin of 17 runs, thanks to the century by Clive Lloyd. This victory marked the beginning of West Indies' cricketing dominance.

1979 - West Indies: West Indies continued their reign by successfully defending their title in the 1979 World Cup, held again in England. They faced England in the final and convincingly won by a margin of 92 runs, solidifying their status as a cricketing powerhouse. Vivian Richards scored an unbeaten 138 in the finals to seal the deal for the West Indies side.

1983 - India: In a historic moment for Indian cricket, the team under the leadership of Kapil Dev secured their first-ever ODI World Cup title. They achieved this remarkable feat by defying all the odds, defeating the formidable West Indies in the final by 43 runs in a memorable match held at Lord’s. Mohinder Amarnath was given the Man of the Match for his all-round effort in the final.

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1987 - Australia: The 1987 World Cup was the first World Cup held outside England. It was hosted by India and Pakistan. Australia emerged as champions, defeating England by just 7 runs in a closely contested final. The win marked Australia’s arrival on the big stage.

1992 - Pakistan: Imran Khan-led Pakistan, claimed their first ODI World Cup title in 1992 held in Australia and New Zealand. In a thrilling final against England, Pakistan won by 22 runs, etching their name in cricket history. Wasim Akram for his all-round effort was awarded Player of the Match.

1996 - Sri Lanka: The 1996 World Cup saw Sri Lanka achieve a historic victory, becoming the third Asian team to win the ultimate championship. They defeated Australia in the final, winning by 7 wickets. Aravinda de Silva for one of the best performances in the World Cup finals was given Player of the Match. He scored an unbeaten century, took three wickets, and grabbed two catches to sail Sri Lanka to their first World Cup title.

1999 - Australia: This is where the era of dominance started. Australia reaffirmed their monopoly in the ODI World Cup by clinching their second title in 1999. They convincingly defeated Pakistan by 8 wickets in the final held in England. Shane Warne’s four-wicket haul earned him the Player of the match trophy.

2003 - Australia: The 2003 World Cup witnessed Australia's relentless march as they secured their third title. They defeated India by a massive margin of 125 runs in the final held in South Africa, solidifying their status as cricketing giants. Ricky Ponting’s unbeaten 140 is one of the finest innings played in the World Cup finals.

2007 - Australia: Australia continued their World Cup-winning streak by winning it for the third time in a row, clinching their fourth title overall. They triumphed over Sri Lanka in a rain-affected final held in the West Indies, winning by 53 runs via the Duckworth-Lewis method. Adam Gilchrist was deemed Player of the Match for his 149-run innings against the lethal Sri Lankan bowling attack. This is the highest score by an individual in the ODI World Cup final.

2011 - India: MS Dhoni-led India, secured their second ODI World Cup title in 2011. In front of a home crowd, they defeated Sri Lanka by 6 wickets in a memorable final held at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Dhoni played a captain’s knock of unbeaten 91 while chasing down a target of 275, earning him the Player of the Match accolade.

2015 - Australia: Australia added their fifth ODI World Cup title in 2015 held in Australia and New Zealand. They faced New Zealand in the final, winning by seven wickets. Mitchell Starc took 22 wickets in the tournament, which earned him the Player of the tournament award.

2019 - England: England's long wait for an ODI World Cup title came to an end in 2019. In a thrilling final against New Zealand, the match ended in a tie, and England secured their maiden title on the boundary count, marking a historic moment for English cricket. Considered the most thrilling encounter ever, Ben Stokes' unbeaten 84-run innings was the highlight of the final.

The ODI Cricket World Cup has been a stage for cricketing excellence, forging legacies, and uniting fans worldwide. As we eagerly await the 2023 edition, this comprehensive list of winners reminds us of the rich history and competitive spirit that defines this remarkable tournament.

The final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on November 19 will give the latest winner of the tournament.