India began their World Cup journey with a performance that marked a significant turning point in their limited-overs cricket history. Facing the formidable West Indies—two-time defending champions and widely regarded as the most dominant side in world cricket at the time—India produced a composed and disciplined performance that defied expectations and stunned the cricketing world.
Challenging Conditions
and a Cautious Start
The match, affected by weather, began later than scheduled.
India were asked to bat first under challenging circumstances—overcast skies, a
damp outfield, and poor light—all of which favoured the bowlers. These
conditions made run-scoring difficult, and the Indian top order found the going
tough. By the end of the 22nd over, the score stood at a modest 79 for the loss
of three wickets, and the innings appeared to be under threat of folding
cheaply.
However, the turning point in the innings came through Yashpal
Sharma, whose resolute and technically sound innings proved vital. Displaying
calm under pressure and the ability to rotate strike while punishing loose
deliveries, Sharma scored a crucial 89. His knock not only anchored the innings
but also shifted the momentum in India’s favour. His partnerships with the
middle order allowed India to build steadily, ultimately reaching a total that
was their highest in three editions of the World Cup.
West Indies Start
Strong, But India Respond
In reply, the West Indian innings began on a
characteristically confident note. The opening pair of Gordon Greenidge and
Desmond Haynes, known for their composure and strokeplay, put together a 49-run
stand that seemed to place the Caribbean side in a strong position. India’s
bowling looked disciplined but lacked penetration early on.
Then came a pivotal moment in the 14th over when Haynes was
run out—a moment that changed the complexion of the match. This wicket not only
broke the opening partnership but also disrupted the rhythm of the West Indies’
chase. The Indian bowlers, sensing an opportunity, tightened their lines and
lengths. The pressure began to mount.
By the close of play on the first day, the West Indies were
67 for two after 22 overs—still within striking distance of the target, but the
game had begun to tilt subtly towards India.
Collapse and Late
Resistance
The following day brought early success for India as Vivian
Richards, the West Indies' most dangerous batsman, was dismissed cheaply. With
his wicket, the backbone of the West Indian batting appeared to crack. What
followed was a remarkable Indian bowling performance—relentless, strategic, and
unwavering. The West Indian middle and lower order could not withstand the
pressure, and wickets fell at regular intervals.
By the 47th over, the scoreboard read 157 for nine, with
India seemingly cruising towards victory. However, cricket's inherent
unpredictability surfaced once again as Andy Roberts and Joel Garner launched a
spirited rearguard action. Their 10th-wicket partnership added 71 runs and
began to genuinely threaten India's control over the match. Roberts played with
authority while Garner provided firm support, turning a seemingly one-sided
affair into a tense finale.
Just as anxiety began to creep into the Indian camp,
wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani produced a moment of brilliance. With sharp reflexes
and composure, he stumped Garner off the bowling of Ravi Shastri, ending the
resistance and sealing India’s famous win.
A Historic Moment in
Indian Cricket
This victory was not merely a group stage win; it was
symbolic. India had previously managed only one win in World Cup cricket—a
match against East Africa in 1975. Defeating the undisputed champions of the
format on a global stage showcased India’s potential and resilience. It planted
the seeds of belief and competitive spirit that would later culminate in
India’s eventual 1983 World Cup triumph.
The match stood as a defining moment, not just for the statistics it produced but for the psychological edge it gave Indian cricket. It proved that disciplined execution, strategic awareness, and self-belief could overcome even the most intimidating opponents.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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