Skip to content 
Cricket has produced countless memorable moments that have captivated fans across the globe. Some matches stand out for their thrilling finishes, record-breaking performances, and sheer drama that have left an indelible mark on the sport. At 99 Exchange, we celebrate these iconic matches that have defined cricketing history. Let’s revisit some of cricket’s most unforgettable encounters.
1. The 1983 World Cup Final: India vs. West Indies
The 1983 World Cup final at Lord’s is one of the most iconic matches in cricket history. India, led by Kapil Dev, faced the formidable West Indies, who were the defending champions. After being bowled out for a modest 183, India’s bowlers put on a spirited display to bundle out the West Indies for 140, securing a historic 43-run victory. This triumph not only marked India’s first World Cup win but also ignited a cricketing revolution in the country.
2. The 2005 Edgbaston Test: England vs. Australia
The second Test of the 2005 Ashes series at Edgbaston is often regarded as one of the greatest Test matches ever played. England set Australia a target of 282, and the match went down to the wire. With Australia needing just three runs to win and England one wicket to secure victory, Steve Harmison bowled Michael Kasprowicz, giving England a thrilling two-run win. This match was a turning point in the series and set the stage for one of the most competitive Ashes series in history.
3. The 2019 World Cup Final: England vs. New Zealand
The 2019 World Cup final at Lord’s is arguably the most dramatic ODI match ever. England and New Zealand ended their innings tied, leading to a Super Over. The Super Over also ended in a tie, and England were declared winners based on the boundary count rule. Ben Stokes’ heroic innings and the nail-biting finish captivated fans and showcased the thrilling unpredictability of cricket.
4. The 1999 World Cup Semi-Final: Australia vs. South Africa
The semi-final of the 1999 World Cup between Australia and South Africa at Edgbaston is remembered for its dramatic and heartbreaking finish. Chasing 214, South Africa needed nine runs off the final over with one wicket in hand. A mix-up between Lance Klusener and Allan Donald led to a run-out, resulting in a tie. Australia advanced to the final based on a superior net run rate. This match is a classic example of cricket’s unpredictability and tension.
5. The 2001 Kolkata Test: India vs. Australia
The second Test of the 2001 series between India and Australia at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, is one of the most remarkable comebacks in cricket history. Following on after being bowled out for 171 in their first innings, India, led by VVS Laxman’s 281 and Rahul Dravid’s 180, posted a massive 657/7 declared. Harbhajan Singh’s spin then bowled out Australia for 212, giving India a 171-run victory. This match ended Australia’s 16-match winning streak and is celebrated for its dramatic turnaround.
6. The 2007 T20 World Cup Final: India vs. Pakistan
The inaugural ICC T20 World Cup final in 2007 between India and Pakistan was a high-octane thriller. India set Pakistan a target of 158, and the match came down to the final over. With Pakistan needing 13 runs off the last over, Joginder Sharma bowled Misbah-ul-Haq, securing a five-run victory for India. This win established India as a T20 powerhouse and intensified the India-Pakistan rivalry.
7. The 2002 NatWest Series Final: India vs. England
The NatWest Series final at Lord’s in 2002 is remembered for its dramatic finish and the iconic image of Sourav Ganguly waving his shirt from the Lord’s balcony. Chasing 325, India were struggling at 146/5, but a spirited partnership between Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif turned the game around. Kaif’s unbeaten 87 guided India to a famous two-wicket win, marking one of the most memorable ODI chases in history.
8. The 1981 Headingley Test: England vs. Australia
The third Test of the 1981 Ashes series at Headingley is one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket. Following on, England were 135/7, still 92 runs behind Australia, but Ian Botham’s explosive 149* and Bob Willis’ inspired bowling (8/43) led England to a remarkable 18-run victory. This match is known as “Botham’s Ashes” and remains one of the most celebrated Test matches.
9. The 2016 T20 World Cup Final: West Indies vs. England
The final of the 2016 T20 World Cup in Kolkata was a nail-biter. Needing 19 runs off the final over, Carlos Brathwaite hit four consecutive sixes off Ben Stokes to secure a stunning victory for the West Indies. Brathwaite’s heroics and the dramatic finish made this match an instant classic, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of T20 cricket.
10. The 2013 Champions Trophy Final: India vs. England
The 2013 Champions Trophy final between India and England at Edgbaston was reduced to a 20-over contest due to rain. India set a target of 130, and England were cruising at 110/4 before a dramatic collapse saw them fall short by five runs. Ravindra Jadeja’s all-round performance and Ishant Sharma’s crucial wickets turned the game in India’s favour, making it a memorable final.
Conclusion
Cricket’s most iconic matches are celebrated for their drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. These encounters have captivated fans, showcasing the spirit and unpredictability of the sport. At 99 Exchange Sports Betting, we cherish these legendary matches, reliving the magic they bring to cricket. As the game continues to evolve, these iconic matches will remain etched in history, reminding us why we love cricket and its thrilling unpredictability.