10 Biggest Cricket Upsets in History
Cricket is a game full of uncertainties. Over the years there have been several big upsets that left fans and experts stunned. Whether it’s a minnow defeating a giant or an unexpected collapse, these moments have etched their place in history.
Here are the 10 biggest cricket upsets in history.
1. India vs West Indies (1983 World Cup Final)
The West Indies were the reigning champions and favourites to win their third consecutive World Cup. However, underdogs India, led by Kapil Dev, stunned the mighty Windies with a historic 43-run victory at Lord’s, securing their maiden World Cup trophy.
2. Kenya vs West Indies (1996 World Cup)
A relatively unknown Kenyan team shocked the world by defeating West Indies in a group-stage game. Kenya bowled out West Indies for just 93 runs pulling off one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.
3. Bangladesh vs Pakistan (1999 World Cup)
Pakistan, one of the tournament favourites, suffered an unexpected defeat at the hands of Bangladesh. This 62-run victory not only boosted Bangladesh’s cricketing status but also contributed to their eventual Test status.
4. Ireland vs Pakistan (2007 World Cup)
In a shocking turn of events, Ireland eliminated Pakistan from the tournament with a three-wicket victory in the group stage. This defeat had significant consequences, leading to Pakistan’s early exit and a major overhaul in their cricketing structure.
5. Netherlands vs England (2009 T20 World Cup)
The Netherlands pulled off an extraordinary last-ball victory against England in the opening match of the tournament at Lord’s. This upset proved that Associate nations could compete with top teams in T20 cricket.
6. Zimbabwe vs Australia (1983 World Cup)
Zimbabwe, in their first-ever World Cup match, stunned a strong Australian side with a 13-run victory. Duncan Fletcher’s all-round performance was the highlight of this shocking result. It’s counted among the biggest cricket upsets in history.
7. Afghanistan vs West Indies (2016 T20 World Cup)
Afghanistan, still an emerging cricketing nation, defeated eventual champions West Indies in a low-scoring thriller, proving their rapid rise in international cricket.
8. Sri Lanka vs India (1979 World Cup)
Sri Lanka, before gaining Test status, shocked India in the group stage of the World Cup defeating them by 47 runs. This victory played a key role in Sri Lanka’s journey to becoming a cricketing powerhouse. No wonder it was one of the biggest cricket upsets ever
9. Scotland vs England (2018 ODI Match)
Scotland stunned the cricketing world by defeating England, the top-ranked one-day international (ODI) team, in a high-scoring thriller. Their six-run win proved that associate members were closing the gap with full members.
10. Bangladesh vs England (2015 World Cup)
Bangladesh secured a quarter-final berth by knocking England out of the World Cup with a 15-run victory. This result was pivotal in reshaping England’s white-ball strategy that eventually led to their 2019 World Cup triumph.
The biggest cricket upsets remind us that nothing is guaranteed in this sport. These incredible moments have changed the landscape of international cricket and continue to inspire underdog teams to believe in their potential.
Which upset do you think was the most shocking? Let us know in the comments!
