The ICC Cricket World Cup is the pinnacle of the One Day International (ODI) format. Every four years, teams from around the globe come together to compete for the coveted trophy. Throughout the history of the ODI World Cup, we have witnessed moments of brilliance, stunning performances, and records that will stand the test of time. However, not all records are celebrations of success. Some records highlight the lows and struggles of teams. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 lowest team totals in ODI World Cup history, which have left a mark for being exceptionally low, ranging from 1979 to the most recent event in 2023.
Top 5 Lowest Totals In ICC Cricket World Cup History
1. Canada’s 36 All-Out Against Sri Lanka in the 2003 World Cup
In 2003, Canada’s World Cup score of 36 versus Sri Lanka was the lowest of any team. In 7 overs, Prabath Nissanka took 4 wickets while allowing just 12 runs. In just 4.4 overs, Sri Lanka was able to reach the goal of 37 runs.
2. Canada’s 45 All-Out Against England in the 1979 World Cup
Canada comes in second, but this time from 20 years ago. In the opening innings of the 1979 World Cup, England knocked Canada out for 45 runs in 40.3.
3. Namibia’s 45 All-Out Against Australia in the 2003 World Cup
Third place goes to Namibia, who have 45 runs, the same total as Canada. At their most dominant, Australia bowled out Namibia for only 45 runs in 14 overs during their second innings in the 2003 World Cup. The team’s goal was 302.
4. Bangladesh’s 58 All-Out Against West Indies in the 2011 World Cup
Bangladesh, a team that has made significant strides in international cricket, had a forgettable day in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup when they faced the West Indies. The West Indian bowlers, led by Kemar Roach and Sulieman Benn, decimated Bangladesh’s batting lineup, limiting them to just 58 runs. This low total was a stark reminder of the West Indies’ potency with the ball and Bangladesh’s need for improvement.
5. Sri Lanka’s 55 All-Out Against India in the 2023 Cricket World Cup
The most recent addition to this list comes from the 2023 Cricket World Cup, where Sri Lanka faced India in a group-stage match in Mumbai. Sri Lanka’s batting lineup struggled to cope with India’s pace trio of Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah. They were all out for 55 runs while chasing 358 runs.
The lowest team totals in ODI World Cup history serve as a reminder that the sport of cricket is full of surprises. While teams strive for excellence, they can also face moments of adversity. These instances not only make the game more exciting but also highlight the importance of skill, strategy, and perseverance in the world of cricket.
These five instances of lowest team totals in ODI World Cup history are etched in the annals of cricket history, serving as reminders of the sport’s unpredictability and the challenges faced by teams on the grandest stage. While these records may not be celebrated, they are a testament to the competitive nature of cricket and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.