Top Successful Run Chases in ICC Cricket World Cup: The ICC Cricket World Cup, a spectacle that captures the imagination of cricket enthusiasts around the globe, has been a stage for some of the most thrilling and record-breaking performances in the history of the sport.
The 2023 edition of the tournament was no different, marked by breathtaking moments, unforgettable chases, zero defeats and convincing triumph of India against any team. From New Zealand’s explosive batting against England to South Africa’s record-breaking 400+ score, this World Cup has had it all. However, one of the most exhilarating aspects of the tournament has been the high-scoring run chases. Here, we delve into the top 5 highest successful run chases in the history of the ICC Cricket World Cup.
List of Successful Run Chases in ICC Cricket World Cup
1. Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – 345/4 (2023)
In a spectacular display of batting, Pakistan set a new benchmark in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 by successfully chasing down Sri Lanka’s formidable total. The match, held on October 10, 2023, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, saw Sri Lanka setting a target of 344 runs. In response, Pakistan, showcasing resilience and skill, achieved the target with 345 runs for 4 wickets in 48.2 overs. M. Rizwan’s outstanding innings of 131 runs off 121 balls was a centrepiece of this chase, earning him the Player of the Match award.
2. Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe – 313/7 (1992)
The 1992 World Cup witnessed a historic chase when Sri Lanka, playing against Zimbabwe at Pukekura Park, New Plymouth, chased down a mammoth total of 313. Under Andy Flower’s unbeaten century in his debut ODI match, Zimbabwe set a daunting target of 312/4. Sri Lanka’s openers provided a solid start, and it was the experienced Arjuna Ranatunga who steered his team home with an unbeaten 88. This chase marked the first time a team had successfully chased down a 300+ target in ODI World Cup history.
3. Bangladesh vs West Indies – 322/3 (2019)
The 2019 World Cup showcased Bangladesh’s batting prowess when they chased down 322 against the West Indies at Taunton. The West Indies had set a strong total of 321/8, but Bangladesh, led by Shakib Al Hasan’s masterful 124 and Litton Das’s aggressive 94, made light work of the target. This victory was a testament to Bangladesh’s growing stature in world cricket.
4. Bangladesh vs Scotland – 322/4 (2015)
Another feather in Bangladesh’s cap came in the 2015 World Cup at Saxton Oval, Nelson, where they chased down 322 against Scotland. Scotland, buoyed by Kyle Coetzer’s 156, posted 318/8. Bangladesh, in their reply, saw Tamim Iqbal score a near-century (95) and received solid contributions from Mahmudullah, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Shakib Al Hasan, highlighting their depth in batting.
5. Ireland vs England- 329/7 (2011)
Perhaps one of the most memorable chases in World Cup history occurred in 2011 when Ireland, the underdogs, chased down 329 against England. This match is etched in cricketing folklore primarily due to Kevin O’Brien’s breathtaking 113 off 63 balls. Ireland’s victory over England was a true David vs Goliath tale and served as a reminder of the unpredictable and thrilling nature of the sport.
These top 5 successful run chases epitomize the essence of the ICC Cricket World Cup – a tournament where heroes are made, records are broken, and the impossible becomes possible. These matches not only provided sheer entertainment but also underscored the evolving dynamics of ODI cricket, where no total seems unattainable. As the World Cup continues to evolve, it promises to keep delivering moments of magic, underlining why it remains one of the most beloved tournaments in the cricketing calendar.
