4 of the greatest World Cup innings of all time

# Ricky Ponting: 140 vs India, 2003 World Cup final

Ricky Ponting

Australia didn't seem like the most likely team to win the World Cup in 2003 after Shane Warne was sent back home. But their skipper had the belief that they could defend their title.

Ricky Ponting always had the passion, the belief and the determination. Those things were what made him one of the greatest players as well as captains to ever play the game.

Australia came to the final in 2003 unbeaten throughout the tournament. They were to face India, who had also played magnificent cricket throughout the competition.

Sourav Ganguly's decision to bowl first after winning the toss was a bit of a brain-fade moment though. It was a beautiful batting strip, and runs on the board are always crucial in big games.

Ponting made the most of the opportunity and smashed 140 off 121 balls. He got his first 50 runs in 74 balls, but after that he really took the attack to the Indians, with strokeplay of sheer brilliance.

India crumbled under the pressure as Australia went on to win their third World Cup title.