ICC ODI World Cup: Cricket, a sport defined by its unpredictability, offers no space for complacency due to its thin margins. The ICC Cricket World Cup, the premier event in the One Day International (ODI) calendar, has witnessed astonishing upsets since its inception in 1975. Whether it’s India’s historic victory against the formidable West Indies in 1983 or Ireland’s record-breaking chase against England, the tournament has consistently delivered thrilling moments and surprises.
Top 5 upsets in ICC ODI World Cup
1. Bangladesh vs India – 2007
India’s historic World Cup victory in 1983 marked a turning point in the trajectory of Indian cricket, transforming them into a cricketing powerhouse by the start of the new millennium. As they entered the 2003 World Cup final under the leadership of Sourav Ganguly, India emerged as strong contenders for the title. Nevertheless, in a stunning upset during their tournament opener, Bangladesh, under Rahul Dravid‘s captaincy, managed to defeat India. Despite boasting a lineup of world-class batsmen, India was bowled out for a mere 191 runs. Bangladesh chased the target with ease.
2. India vs West Indies – 1983
The iconic image of Kapil Dev lifting the 1983 World Cup trophy at Lord’s remains etched in the minds of Indian fans. India, with only one victory in the first two World Cup editions (1975-1979), pulled off a significant upset by defeating the formidable West Indies in their 1983 World Cup opener in Manchester. India successfully defended their total of 262/8 against a world-class bowling attack, setting the stage for their championship-winning journey. India defeated the same Windies team in the final and lifted the trophy.
3. England vs Ireland – 2011
In 2011, a lower-ranked Ireland achieved one of the most remarkable upsets in World Cup history by defeating England. Ireland successfully chased down a daunting target of 328 runs, with Kevin O’Brien leading the way with a stunning 63-ball 113. This performance by O’Brien is still the fastest century (50 balls) in a 50-over World Cup match, marking a historic moment in cricket history.
4. Sri Lanka vs Kenya – 2003
Kenya rose to prominence during the 2003 World Cup when they achieved surprising victories over Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe, securing a place in the semi-finals. India ultimately defeated them in the semis, but their triumph over Sri Lanka was a notable upset. Sri Lankan bowlers Muthiah Muralidaran and Chaminda Vaas limited Kenya to 210/9 in their innings. In response, Collins Obuya’s five-wicket haul led to Sri Lanka being bowled out for 157, marking a memorable upset in the tournament.
5. England vs Bangladesh – 2015
England faced a challenging campaign during the 2015 World Cup, suffering four losses in six Pool A matches, leading to their elimination. A crucial defeat occurred against Bangladesh in a must-win match. Mahmudullah’s century propelled Bangladesh to 275/7 at the Adelaide Oval. Despite England’s promising position at 121/2 during the chase, Rubel Hossain, Mashrafe Mortaza, and Taskin Ahmed triggered their downfall, resulting in England being bowled out for 260 in a significant upset.
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