Cricket World Cup History: The greatest XI that never won the World cup

#2 Middle Order: Kumar Sangakkara (WK), Brian Lara, and AB de Villiers

Brian Lara

When it comes to monumental achievements in the history of ODI cricket, Kumar Sangakkara’s heroics with the bat in the 2015 World Cup will be very difficult to match. He was a different beast altogether as he stunned the world with 4 consecutive centuries and broke many records in the process. He finished that World Cup as the second highest run-getter at a staggering average of 108.20.

Innings: 35 Runs: 1532 Average: 56.74 Strike rate: 86.55

Even though Brian Lara was exceptional with the bat in almost every edition he played, the teams which he had were never the favourites to win the World Cup. He has represented his country in four World Cup events and has two centuries to his name. His best knock came against South Africa at Newlands in 2003 when he scored 116 against the hosts.

Innings: 33 Runs: 1225 Average: 42.24 Strike rate: 86.26

All the batsmen in this list are run machines but what sets AB de Villiers apart from all others is his ability to change the entire game in a matter of few deliveries. His 162* off 66 balls in the 2015 edition against West Indies is undoubtedly the most destructive knock in the history of this tournament.

Innings: 22 Runs: 1207 Average: 63.52 Strike rate: 117.29