Table of Contents
The ICC ODI Cricket World Cup has witnessed some of the most breathtaking moments in cricketing history. Among these, high-scoring chases have always been a thrilling aspect of the tournament. Over the years, many teams have displayed their caliber by successfully chasing down substantial targets.
Here are the top five iconic run chases that left spectators on the edge of their seats. From nail-biting finishes to incredible comebacks, these matches are a testament to the enduring thrill of cricket’s grandest stage.
5) Sri Lanka – 313/7 vs Zimbabwe: ODI World Cup 1992
On February 23, 1992, Sri Lanka achieved a historic feat in cricket during the ODI World Cup. They became the first cricket team to successfully chase a score exceeding 300 in the tournament’s history. This remarkable achievement occurred in a thrilling match against Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe posted an impressive total of 312/4 in their allotted 50 overs, led by Andy Flower‘s elegant 115 and AC Waller‘s valuable 83. Sri Lanka, determined to chase the target, showcased a brilliant batting display with Arjuna Ranatunga‘s commanding 88 and Athula Samarasekera‘s composed 75.
The Islanders managed to secure victory by three wickets, chasing down a formidable target of 313 with just four balls to spare. It was a day marked by fearless batting and a significant moment in cricket history.
4) Bangladesh – 322/4 vs Scotland: ODI World Cup 2015
In a gripping cricket match, Scotland found their strength in Kyle Coetzer‘s remarkable innings of 156, enabling them to amass 318 for eight within their allotted 50 overs. The game took an unexpected turn for Bangladesh when Anamul Haque, one of their regular openers, suffered a shoulder injury while fielding during the 31st over of Scotland’s innings.
However, notable contributions came from seasoned players like Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, and Mahmudullah, each reaching half-centuries. Sabbir Rahman remained unbeaten at 42. Though Tamim fell five runs short of a century, Bangladesh completed the chase in 48.1 overs, solidifying their victory in an unforgettable match.
Also READ: Ravi Shastri gives one reason why India could win the ODI World Cup 2023
3) Bangladesh – 322/3 vs West Indies: ODI World Cup 2019
In the 2019 World Cup, Bangladesh drew upon their determination and skill as they impressively pursued and overcame West Indies‘ challenging target of 322 runs. The team exhibited top-notch form, with their batters efficiently achieving the task in a mere 41.3 overs. Bangladesh emerged victorious with a seven-wicket win that underscored their capabilities on the cricketing stage. Shakib, showcased his skill by crafting an unbeaten inning of 124 runs. Litton Das also contributed significantly with 94 runs off 69 deliveries, sealing the game for the Bangla Tigers.
2) Ireland – 329/7 vs England: ODI World Cup 2011
Ireland created a sensational moment in cricket history during the 2011 World Cup when they pulled off a stunning upset against their arch-rivals, England. The Irish team executed a remarkable chase of a daunting target of 328 runs in just 49.1 overs. At the heart of this memorable victory was Kevin O’Brien, whose performance shone brightly in the match.
The Irish batter played a match-winning knock, crafting a spectacular century by amassing 113 runs from just 63 balls. His exceptional batting was adorned with 13 boundaries and 6 powerful sixes, all achieved at an astonishing strike rate 179.37, leaving a lasting mark on the cricketing world.
1) Pakistan – 345/4 vs Sri Lanka: ODI World Cup 2023
Sri Lanka and Pakistan faced off in the 8th encounter of the 2023 ODI World Cup at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The Islanders displayed a formidable performance, amassing an imposing total of 344/9 in their 50 overs, thanks to the scintillating centuries scored by Kusal Mendis (122) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (108). Their prospects of victory looked promising as they swiftly dismantled Pakistan’s top-order, dismissing Imam-ul-Haq and captain Babar Azam.
However, Abdullah Shafique (113) and Mohammad Rizwan (131 not out) rose to the occasion with remarkable centuries, guiding their team to a memorable victory by six wickets.
This triumph not only secured the win for Pakistan but also etched their name in the record books for achieving the highest successful run chase in ODI World Cups, a remarkable feat as they chased down 345 runs against Sri Lanka. Additionally, this match marked a historic milestone as it featured four centurions, a first in the annals of World Cup cricket.
