Throughout the history of the Cricket World Cup, a number of fierce rivalries have come up showcasing some heating moments in the game. Though the game of cricket is often titled as a gentlemen’s game, there have been some aggressive moments as the players indulged in jingoism. Here are five of the greatest rivalries to ever enthral fans that hold major relevance with the world cup contests and often generate arguments among fans.
1. India-Pakistan Rivalry
The most infamous rivalry that almost every cricket fan from all corners of the world is fully aware of is the India-Pakistan Rivalry. The Cricket World Cup match between India and Pakistan is the most passionate and exciting of all cricket rivalries. The two countries’ political tensions make their confrontations highly explosive, emotionally charged events that are viewed by millions of people across the world.
2. Australia-England Rivalry
Another rivalry that has become old over the years is Australia-England Rivalry. The Ashes rivalry between Australia and England also affects the Cricket World Cup. Australia and England’s matches are very tough, and both sides give it their all. The historical context and intense cricket matches between two longtime rivals make it essential to witness these matches.
3. Australia-South Africa Rivalry
Though there is no change of dispute between the two nations, the only thing that makes them rivals is competition. Both teams have been highly competitive performers in the world cup tournament. The Cricket World Cup has seen several noteworthy matchups between Australia and South Africa. Due to the Proteas’ history of being eliminated by the Aussies from tournaments, there is fierce animosity between the two sides.
4. Australia-New Zealand Rivalry
Australia-New Zealand rivalry reflects the same as the India-Pakistan rivalry as both are neighbours like India and Pakistan. Though there is no sort of enmity between both unlike India. Australia and New Zealand’s cross-Tasman rivalry has gained importance over time. The World Cup matchups between these two countries are especially exciting because of their closeness and mutual rivalry. These two teams faced off in a thrilling and fiercely competitive final in 2015.
5. England-Pakistan Rivalry
Another rivalry that seems to have grown in the recent ICC tournaments is England-Pakistan vie. In the history of the Cricket World Cup, the rivalry between Pakistan and England in cricket has generated several notable events. Even while it may not be as heated as some other cricket rivalries, such as Australia-England or India-Pakistan, games between Pakistan and England in the World Cup have frequently been fiercely contested and tough
