45 of the Most Legendary Moments in Cricket History

This article appeared in thedaddest.com and has been published here with permission.

From England to Australia to India, from the Ashes to One Day Internationals and Test matches, cricket has been the premier game of bat and ball for centuries. And that means it's seen thousands of legendary moments in its time, whether individual or team efforts. These moments have inspired future generations of cricket players and fans alike. These Legendary Moments have gone down in history as some of the most iconic events ever to happen in cricket. Here are some moments that have made cricket what it is today.

The First Ashes Tournament, 1882

One of the most heated rivalries in all sports, the Ashes is a cricket series played between England and Australia. The rivalry dates back to 1882 when Australia defeated England on English soil for the first time.

The First Ashes Tournament, 1882

Since then, the two teams have been battling it out for the urn, with the current score standing at 37-33 in favor of Australia in terms of the number of times the urn has been won. People who usually would never speak to each other can’t help but get along during this period as they fight against their rivals.

Kapil Dev’s 175, 1983

The Nevill Ground in Tunbridge Wells on June 18 witnessed one of the most spectacular moments in Indian cricketing history. Indian captain Kapil Dev performed with grandeur and made an innings of 175 runs against Zimbabwe, captivating all.

Kapil Dev’s 175, 1983

No words of praise could do justice to a sublime batting performance that was enough to carry the Indian team from the lowest depths of 17/4 to a final total of 266, India’s biggest score in the World Cup. This inning is regarded as one of Kapil Dev’s finest moments in cricket history.

India the World Cup Winners 1983

The Indian cricket team won the 1983 World Cup by defeating the two-time defending champions, West Indies. In the final, India batted first and scored 183 runs. West Indies looked like they'd win easily, but Indian bowlers bowled their hearts out.

India the World Cup Winners 1983

The final blow was given by none other than Kapil Dev, who took the most important catch of his life to dismiss Vivian Richards, and India went on to win by 43 runs. It was a moment that cemented Kapil Dev’s place as one of cricket’s all-time greats.

Cricket the Undeclared National Sport, 1983

Post the 1983 World Cup win, the popularity of cricket scaled to new heights in India. David was put up against Goliath in the final match of that World Cup, which was played against the dominating West Indian team who had beaten the entire world and had already won two consecutive World Cups.

Cricket the Undeclared National Sport, 1983

After the win, the players were treated like heroes, and the victory was hailed as a national triumph. Life-size cardboard cutouts of the team lined the streets, while banners read 'India Wins! We Win!'