Five greatest cricket World Cup finals in history

3. Reliance World Cup 1987 final (Eden Gardens, Calcutta)

In the tournament’s relatively short history, this was the first time it was hosted away from the UK.

Eden Gardens played host to traditional cricketing rivals Australia and England – the latter having trounced defending champions India in the semi-finals. Australia batted first and posted 253 in their allotted 50 overs, largely on the back of David Boon’s magnificent 75 and a stroke-filled unbeaten 45 from Mike Veletta.

England were comfortably placed at 135/2, with captain Mike Gatting and Bill Athey at the crease. Their partnership was beginning to rattle the Australians.

Just then, Aussie skipper Allan Border came on to bowl his left-arm orthodox spin, and Gatting succumbed to what can only be described as a rush of blood. He tried to execute a reverse sweep, but the ball hit his shoulder and flew into the gloves of wicket-keeper Greg Dyer, who managed to hold on despite his surprise. Gatting left, shaking his head in bewilderment.

Athey fell soon after, and despite Allan Lamb’s valiant 45 and a quick cameo by Phil Defreitas, Australia were not to be denied, and they scampered home by seven runs. They would go on to win the title three more times – but it was Border’s brilliant move that signalled England’s doom in the quest for the world championship. Terrific stuff!