India Shocks the World: Defending a Low Score in World Cup Final


In 80's cricket was not popular in India as it was in country like England, Australia and West Indies.

West Indies mostly dominated the game by winning two world cup trophy back to back i.e 1975 and 1979 world cup.



In 1983 world cup West Indies was popular candidate for title as it two times champion and defending champion as well in 1983 world cup.

The 1983 Cricket World Cup Final, held at Lord’s on June 25, is considered one of the most iconic moments in the history of the sport, especially for India. The match pitted India against the mighty West Indies, who were the defending champions and had dominated the game since the first World Cup in 1975.

India’s Triumph

India, led by captain Kapil Dev, entered the final as underdogs. West Indies had a star-studded lineup, featuring legends like Clive Lloyd, Vivian Richards, and Michael Holding. India’s journey to the final had already been seen as a major achievement, having come through a difficult group stage.


The Match

India won the toss and elected to bat first. The Indian batting order, which had been relatively strong throughout the tournament, faltered under pressure. The West Indian bowlers, led by the lethal fast bowlers, kept the Indian batters in check. India struggled and was dismissed for just 183 runs in 54.4 overs.

Despite the modest total, India’s bowlers, especially Mohinder Amarnath, gave their best to create an upset. The Indian bowlers, including the spinners like Ravi Shastri, and the pace attack, led by Madan Lal, restricted the West Indian batsmen, who were unable to chase the target efficiently.

West Indies’ Collapse

Chasing 184 runs, the West Indies were expected to cruise to victory. However, the Indian bowlers made early breakthroughs. The key moment came when Vivian Richards, who was batting with confidence, was dismissed for just 33 runs. From there, the West Indian chase crumbled. The once invincible team failed to build partnerships, and they were bowled out for just 140 runs, handing India a stunning victory by 43 runs.

The Impact

India’s victory in the 1983 World Cup was a turning point for Indian cricket. It was the country’s first-ever World Cup win and forever changed the landscape of cricket in India. The win inspired millions of young cricketers and elevated the sport’s profile in the country. It was also a breakthrough moment for Kapil Dev, who was hailed as a hero, and Mohinder Amarnath, who was named the Player of the Match for his all-round performance.

The win was more than just a sports victory—it sparked a cricketing revolution in India, where the game grew from strength to strength in the years to come.




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