It is a historical mark left by the Indian cricket team 39 years ago … Yes, it was on this date that the Indian team won the World Cup for the first time …
The West Indies, Australia and England were colossal in cricket in 1983 when the Kapil Dev-led team traveled to England for the World Cup. No one thought the Indian team would win the trophy … not predictable. But it did happen.
Surprisingly advancing to the final, India faced two-time defending champions West Indies in a trophy challenge. That miracle happened. They are scenes that make it interesting to think. The final match of the Indian cricket team was recorded on the same date in 1983.
Batting first, India scored 183 in 55 overs. Srikanth, a starter from Tamil Nadu, scored 38 runs in the regular action. Sandeep Patil added 27 runs. That was the lowest score ever by a team that played first in a World Cup final.
The West Indies team was expected to reach the target easily. But the Indian bowlers bowled the West Indies wickets with consistent, excellent bowling. Vivian Richards-Chin’s 33 off 28 balls gave India hope.
West Indies rolled to 140 runs. Mohinder Amarnath and Madan Lal took 3 wickets each. The Kapil Dev-led force put an end to the West Indies’ winning streak. Kapil Dev carries the trophy on the balcony of Lord’s, the birthplace of cricket. Dream? Really? The fans shed tears of joy. The nation cheered with fellow players celebrating the victory.
Mohinder Amarnath won the man of the match award. If the 1983 World Cup cricket gave Indian sports hope to achieve internationally it would definitely apply.
