Monday, November 12, 2007

1979 Cricket World Cup

After the success of the 1975 Cricket World Cup, the ICC organized the 1979 Cricket World Cup in England. It was the second edition of the Cricket World Cup and was as much of a success as its predecessor. Played in an unchanged format from the 1975 World Cup, the 1979 Cricket World Cup in England too saw participation from 8 countries. Unfortunately South Africa was left out and to fill the spot, a tournament was held among the junior countries and Canada and Sri Lanka qualified from there.

The participating nations were:

England · Australia · New Zealand · West Indies · India · Pakistan · Sri Lanka · Canada

West Indies emerged winners yet again, and this time beat England by 92 runs in the final held at the famous Lords cricket ground. Vivian Richards was declared man of the match. With this victory, the men from the Caribbean consolidated their position as World Champions. New Zealand and Pakistan were the two other semi finalists. The tournament attracted fans from all over the world and the matches were played in packed stadiums. The usual design of 60 overs, white uniforms and red balls was maintained. Prudential was the sponsor of the 1979 Cricket World Cup and so the tournament is also referred to as the Prudential Cup.