5 lesser-known names that helped their teams to World Cup glory

#3 Andy Bichel

When Australian fans take trips to the world of nostalgia, they replay the devastating bouncers of Brett Lee, Shane Warne’s unreal turn, Gilly’s master strokeplay, Ricky Ponting’s class and Hayden’s power in their minds—putting a smile on their faces.

Michael Bevan, Michael Hussey, Steve Waugh, Mark Waugh, Glenn McGrath… the list goes on and on. These are the guys who have carved a space for themselves in the hearts of the fans. However, very few hearts will have a home with Andy Bichel residing in it.

However, when it comes to their glory at the 2003 World Cup, Andy Bichel played a highly significant role. Australia’s immeasurable batting strength meant that Bichel rarely got the chance to bat in the tournament, but when he did, he did really well.

In the three innings that he got to bat, he was unbeaten twice and scored 117 runs with an average of 117. It was his bowling, however, that made more waves. His 7-wicket spell against England remains one of the greatest displays of bowling in a World Cup.

By the time the tournament ended, he had picked up 16 wickets in 8 games at an average of 12.31—the best among bowlers with over 50 overs to their name in that World Cup.