The history of the Cricket World Cup is adorned with exhilarating matches, stunning performances, and unexpected turnarounds. Amidst the tales of triumph and heartbreak, there lies a subset of matches that ended in an intriguing and uncommon fashion – a draw. The ODI World Cup has also witnessed its fair share of thrilling contests that resulted in deadlocks. Here, we take a journey down memory lane to revisit 5 remarkable instances when the ODI World Cup matches ended in a draw.
1) Australia vs. South Africa – 17 June 1999
Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham, England
In a nail-biting encounter during the 1999 World Cup, Australia and South Africa locked horns at Edgbaston Cricket Ground. Both teams managed to score 213 runs, with Australia bowled out in 49.2 overs and South Africa in 49.4 overs. This match showcased the essence of competitiveness as neither team was willing to bow down.
2) Sri Lanka vs. South Africa – 3 March 2003
Kingsmead Cricket Ground, Durban, South Africa
The Kingsmead Cricket Ground witnessed another dramatic tie during the 2003 World Cup. Sri Lanka posted a total of 268/9 in their 50 overs. In reply, South Africa managed to score 229/6 in the allotted 45 overs before the rain interrupted play and the match ended in a draw. This dramatic contest added another chapter to the history of draw matches in the World Cup.
3) Ireland vs. Zimbabwe – 15 March 2007
Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica
During the 2007 World Cup, Ireland and Zimbabwe produced a thrilling contest that culminated in a tie. Ireland set a target of 222 runs, managing to reach 221/9 in their 50 overs. In response, Zimbabwe matched the target exactly, scoring 221 runs in their allotted overs. This match exemplified the unpredictable nature of ODI cricket, where every run and wicket counts.
4) India vs. England – 27 February 2011
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bangalore, India
The 2011 World Cup witnessed a high-scoring encounter between India and England at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. India posted an imposing total of 338 runs in 49.5 overs. England, displaying their tenacity, managed to score the same total, with 338/8 in their 50 overs. This match showcased the sheer determination and skill of both teams, resulting in a thrilling draw.
5) New Zealand vs. England – 14 July 2019
Lord’s, London, England
The 2019 World Cup final between New Zealand and England etched its name in history for more than one reason. Apart from the dramatic Super Over finish, the match itself ended in a tie after both teams scored 241 runs in their respective innings. The nail-biting conclusion led to a Super Over, further cementing its status as one of the most memorable matches in World Cup history.
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These 5 matches serve as a testament to the thrilling and unpredictable nature of ODI cricket. The sheer competitiveness, determination, and unwavering spirit displayed by the teams in these encounters have etched them in the annals of cricketing history. As cricket fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup, they are sure to look back at these moments with a sense of awe and appreciation for the game’s timeless charm.