This was published 11 years ago
World Cups: The good, the bad and the ugly
England, 1975
Indian great Sunil Gavaskar (pictured playing a rare attacking shot) showed his regard, or lack thereof, for the new form the game with an innings of 36 not out in what was a 60 over match. India finished at 3-132, well short of England's total of 334.
England, 1975
Australia's Gary Gilmour produced a superb performance to book his team a spot in the inaugural World Cup final. The left-armer swung the ball to take 6-14 as England were bowled out for 93. Then with his team in trouble at 6/39, Gilmour smashed 28 off as many balls to see Australia home.
England, 1975
However, the Australians were unable to overcome the West Indies after their captain Clive Lloyd smashed 102 off just 85 deliveries. In reply, the Australians famously had five players run out, three of them being caught short by Viv Richards
England, 1979
Four years later, West Indies stormed to victory over England in the final of the second World Cup after another explosive century, this time from Viv Richards.
England, 1983
Having already beaten the two-time defending champions, India were in trouble against Zimbabwe when Kapil Dev walked to the middle at 4-9. The captain rescued his team with an incredible knock of 175 off 138 balls.
England, 1983
The captain was inspirational throughout as India stormed to their maiden World Cup triumph, thwarting the West Indian effort for a three-peat in the final with a 43-run win.
Subcontinent, 1987
One of the most infamous World Cup moments occured in the final between Australia and England. With England in control of the run chase, Mike Gatting was dismissed after choosing to play an ill-fated reverse sweep. Australia went on to prevail by seven runs.
Subcontinent, 1987
The Allan Border-led triumph featured the slower ball-laden death bowling of Simon O'Donnell and Steve Waugh.
Australia/NZ, 1992
The World Cup burst into colour in 1992, with coloured clothing, day-night matches and white balls all appearing for the first time.
