OTD 1983: India lift their maiden ODI World Cup title

World cricket has witnessed some memorable moments since the game spread its wings across the globe. Hence Indian cricket too has come a long way over some decades and has experienced some incredible moments en route to achieving glory. Therefore, June 25, 1983, holds a special place for every Indian cricket fan as On This Day, the day team India went on to win their first ODI World Cup title. In a true underdog story, India faced off against title favourites the West Indies in the summit clash of the tournament. Both sides faced off at Lord's, London, and the game began with India batting first. 

The side opened with Sunil Gavaskar departing for just two runs in 12 deliveries. The ship was steadied by Kris Srikkanth who scored 38 runs in 57 deliveries, with Mohinder Amarnath adding 26 runs in 80 deliveries. The West Indies’ exceptional bowling attack limited India quite well. 

Sandeep Patil scored 27 runs, Madan Lal added 17 runs, and the Indian skipper Kapil Dev scored 15 runs on the board as the Indian team posted a total of 183 runs in the first innings. As the Windies came out to chase the target, the side was met with the early dismissal of their openers. Sir Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes scored one and 13 runs, respectively. Ace batter Vivian Richards only managed to score 33 runs in 28 deliveries. After the top order’s failure, West Indies’ middle order failed to go big as Sir Clive Lloyd, Larry Gomes, and Faoud Bacchus departed early as well. 

The Indian team put forth a masterclass of a bowling performance to limit the Windies to a score of 140 and win the game by 43 runs. Madan Lal was adjudged Player of the Match for his 17-run knock and three wickets in the second innings. Skipper Kapil Dev and Co. scripted history, and one of the biggest underdog stories in all sports reached fruition with India winning the ODI World Cup title. 

A defining moment for Indian cricket: Jay Shah

Notably, Team India completed 40 years since its first ODI World Cup title win, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) secretary, Jay Shah, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) and talked about what it means for the entire country.

Reflecting on 41 years since India’s historic first World Cup victory under @therealkapildev’s leadership in 1983. A defining moment for Indian cricket that continues to inspire us all. 🇮🇳🏆 @BCCI pic.twitter.com/i5xI2kDoBv

— Jay Shah (@JayShah) June 25, 2024

“Reflecting on 41 years since India’s historic first World Cup victory under @therealkapildev’s leadership in 1983. A defining moment for Indian cricket that continues to inspire us all,” Jay Shah wrote on his 'X' handle.