Lowest Total Defended in ODI Cricket World Cup: The ODI World Cup stands as a prestigious multinational cricket tournament where the world’s top teams vie for the coveted title of World champions. This quadrennial event has been a staple in the cricket calendar since its inception. The inaugural edition unfolded on English soil in 1975, culminating with West Indies emerging as victorious champions. India etched their name in cricket history in 1983 when they clinched the championship, triumphing over West Indies in a gripping final.
In a stunning display of grit and determination, India successfully defended a modest total of 183 runs, clinching victory by a margin of 43 runs. Remarkably, this remarkable achievement by Team India in 1983, although low-scoring, was not the lowest team total ever defended in the illustrious history of the World Cup.
In this article, we delve into the complete details on Lowest Total Defended in ODI Cricket World Cup History, Lowest Total Defended in ODI Cricket World Cup, Lowest Total Defended In World Cups.
Lowest Total Defended in ODI Cricket World Cup History
Following are the Lowest Targets Defended by a Team in a ODI World Cup.
Zimbabwe Holds Record for Lowest Total Defended (1992)
Zimbabwe made history during the 1992 World Cup clash against England in Albury by defending a paltry total of 134 runs. In the 35th game of the tournament, Zimbabwe batted first and managed only 134 runs in 46.1 overs, with Captain David Houghton leading the charge with 29 runs. In response, England suffered a dismal batting display, getting all out for just 125 runs in 49.1 overs, resulting in a nine-run victory for Zimbabwe. This unexpected outcome marked one of the most significant upsets in World Cup history.
England’s Remarkable Low Total Defense (1979)
During the 1979 World Cup, England showcased their prowess in restricting a low total against Pakistan. In the 12th game of the tournament, England posted a modest score of 165/9 in 60 overs during their first innings. Pakistan, in reply, faltered significantly, getting all out for a mere 51 runs in 56 overs, resulting in England’s victory by a margin of 14 runs. Mike Hendrick played a pivotal role in this remarkable victory, delivering an exceptional performance with figures of 4/15.
Kenya’s Defensive Feat Against West Indies (1996)
Kenya achieved the third-lowest total defense during the 1996 World Cup in Asia, specifically in the 21st game of the tournament. Despite setting a meager target of 166 runs while batting first, Kenya’s bowlers rose to the occasion. They bowled the West Indies out for a mere 93 runs in 35.2 overs, securing a comprehensive 73-run victory. This impressive display of bowling prowess remains a memorable moment in Kenya’s cricketing history.
England’s Low Total Defense Versus South Africa (2011)
England’s ability to defend low totals in World Cup events was evident in the 2011 edition, particularly in the 21st game of the tournament held in Chennai. England managed to post just 171 runs in their first innings, with Ravi Bopara contributing 60 runs. However, their second innings proved to be even more challenging for South Africa, as they could only muster 165 runs in 47.4 overs, resulting in a victory for England. Stuart Broad played a pivotal role, recording figures of 4/15.
Canada’s Iconic Upset Against Bangladesh (2003)
One of the most memorable World Cup upsets unfolded during the 2003 clash between Canada and Bangladesh in Durban. Canada batted first but struggled, getting all out for 180 runs in 49.1 overs. Despite being considered underdogs, their bowlers delivered an exceptional performance. Bangladesh was bowled out for just 120 runs, thanks in large part to Austin Codrington’s impressive figures of 5/27. Canada emerged victorious in this iconic encounter, securing a remarkable 60-run win.
Lowest Score Defended in ODI World Cup History
Given below are the Lowest Scores Successfully Defended in 50 Overs World Cup.
| Winner | Target | Against | Venue | Date | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zimbabwe | 135 | England | Lavington Oval | 18/03/1992 | Zimbabwe won by 9 runs |
| England | 166 | Pakistan | Headingley | 16/06/1979 | England won by 14 runs |
| Kenya | 167 | West Indies | Nehru Stadium | 29/02/1996 | Kenya won by 73 runs |
| England | 172 | South Africa | MA Chidambaram | 06/03/2011 | England won by 6 runs |
| Canada | 181 | Bangladesh | 11/02/2003 | Canada won by 60 runs | |
| India | 184 | West Indies | Lord’s | 25/06/1983 | India won by 43 runs |
| Pakistan | 185 | Canada | R Premadasa | 03/03/2011 | Pakistan won by 46 runs |
| Bangladesh | 186 | Scotland | Grange Cricket Club | 24/05/1999 | Bangladesh won by 22 runs |
| South Africa | 200 | Sri Lanka | Northampton | 19/05/1999 | South Africa won by 89 runs |
| South Africa | 201 | West Indies | AMI Stadium | 05/03/1992 | South Africa won by 64 runs |
