The history of the ICC Cricket World Cup is adorned with unforgettable moments, and among them are the stellar performances by batsmen who rose to the occasion in the finals, leaving an indelible mark on the cricketing world. In this article, we revisit the glorious centuries scored by some of the cricketing legends in ODI World Cup finals, exploring the impact of their innings and the significance of their achievements.
Centuries in ODI World Cup Finals
Clive Lloyd (WI) – 102*Runs [1975 CWC]
In the inaugural ODI World Cup final, Clive Lloyd’s unbeaten century against Australia set the stage for West Indies’ triumph. Facing 85 balls, Lloyd’s innings included 12 boundaries, 2 sixes showcasing the power and flair that would define West Indies cricket for years to come.
Vivian Richards (WI) – 138* Runs [1979 CWC]
Vivian Richards’ majestic knock in the 1979 final against England remains etched in cricketing folklore. Richards faced 157 deliveries, hitting 11 boundaries and 3 sixes. His fearless approach and destructive stroke play helped West Indies secure their second consecutive World Cup title.
Aravinda de Silva (SL) – 107* Runs [1996 CWC]
Aravinda de Silva’s century in the 1996 final against Australia played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s historic triumph. His composed innings, comprising 124 deliveries with 13 boundaries, showcased his class and ability to deliver on the grandest stage.
Ricky Ponting (AUS) – 140* Runs [2003 CWC]
Ricky Ponting’s captain’s knock in the 2003 final against India reaffirmed Australia’s dominance in world cricket. Ponting faced 121 balls, smashing 4 fours and 8 sixes. His authoritative innings showcased his leadership and batting prowess, leading Australia to another World Cup victory.
Adam Gilchrist (AUS) – 149 Runs [2007 CWC]
In the 2007 final against Sri Lanka, Adam Gilchrist’s explosive innings redefined the role of a wicketkeeper-batsman. Gilchrist’s innings of 104 balls included 13 boundaries and 8 sixes, setting the tone for Australia’s comprehensive win in a rain-affected match.
Mahela Jayawardene (SL) – 103* Runs [2011 CWC]
Mahela Jayawardene’s elegant century in the 2011 final against India was a masterclass in pressure batting. Facing 88 balls, Jayawardene hit 13 boundaries, showcasing his grace and skill. Despite Sri Lanka’s loss, his innings earned him accolades for his remarkable contribution.
Travis Head (AUS) – 137 Runs [2023 CWC]
Travis Head shone in the World Cup final, showcasing an outstanding batting performance by scoring 137 runs. Australia’s collective bowling display and impressive fielding limited India to a target of 240, which seemed quite achievable for the Australian team. Head’s remarkable century, achieved in just 95 balls with 15 fours and 4 sixes, earned him a place alongside Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist as Australians who have achieved the feat of scoring 100 in a World Cup final.
World Cup Final Centurions
| CWC Final | Name | Runs | Opponent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1975 | Clive Lloyd | 102 | Australia |
| 1979 | Viv Richards | 138* | England |
| 1996 | Aravinda De Silva | 107* | Australia |
| 2003 | Ricky Ponting | 140* | India |
| 2007 | Adam Gilchrist | 149 | Sri Lanka |
| 2011 | Mahela Jayawardene | 103* | India |
| 2023 | Travis Head | 137 | India |
The ODI World Cup finals have witnessed cricketing legends crafting innings of immense significance, leaving an enduring legacy. From the power-packed strokes of Clive Lloyd to the elegance of Mahela Jayawardene, these centurions have not only etched their names in the record books but have also become an integral part of the cricketing narrative. As cricket enthusiasts, we continue to celebrate and cherish these moments that define the spirit and magic of the ICC Cricket World Cup.
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