Cricket is like a religion, especially in Asia. And when it comes to major tournaments like the World Cup, the excitement and thrill reach another level. The matches between arch-rivals are always the most eagerly awaited ones. Let’s look at some famous Cricket World Cup clashes between arch-rivals.
India vs. Pakistan – 1992 World Cup
India vs. Pakistan is one of the biggest rivalries in cricket history in the 1992 World Cup. India won the toss and batted first, putting up 216 runs. In response, India crumbled Pakistan under pressure and bowled out them on 173 runs, taking a convincing victory over Pakistan.
Australia vs. England – 2003 World Cup
The Ashes rivals met in the 2003 World Cup, and it was a match to remember. England batted first and scored a massive total of 204 runs. In response, Australia got off to a disastrous start, losing their starting four wickets for just fifty runs. But Michael Bevan’s 74 runs off 126 balls push the game in their favor, giving Australia a nail-biting victory.
India vs. Pakistan – 2011 World Cup
The semi-final between India and Pakistan in the 2011 World Cup was one of the most anticipated matches in cricket history. India won the toss and batted first, putting up 260 runs on the board. In response, Pakistan got off to a decent start, but they lost starting four wickets without scoring any player 50 runs. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 231 runs, giving India a memorable victory.
Australia vs. New Zealand – 2015 World Cup (20th match)
The 2015 World Cup 20th match between Australia and New Zealand was a very intense battle. Australia won the toss and batted first, but Kiwis swiped them with a score of 150 runs only on the board. In response, Australia started well, and Aussie bowler Starc ended the New Zealand single-handed, eventually in 23.1. Over, losing nine wickets, almost lost, but Kiwis registered a victory.
England vs. New Zealand – 2019 World Cup Final
No matter how many times I mention the 2019 final World Cup, it never feels like enough. This match was a testament to the hard work the New Zealand team put in. However, due to the clumsy rule of the ICC, England was declared the winner in that final match.
The decision sparked widespread protests from around the globe, leading the ICC to revoke the rule ultimately. This incident proves that the Kiwis were the deserving finalists, or there should have been another super-over to determine the winner.
