Prudential World Cup 1979 : Caribbeans At It Again

Likewise in 1975, Prudential World Cup 1979 featured eight teams. The only change was Canada replacing East Africa. Group A consisted of hosts England, Pakistan, Australia and debutants Canada. Whereas, defending champions West Indies, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and India filled up Group B slots.

England and Pakistan from Group A while West Indies and New Zealand from Group B qualified for the semi finals. England took on New Zealand in the first semi finals whereas West Indies clashed with Pakistan in the other semi finals.

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The semi final encounter between England and New Zealand was a very close encounter. Thanks to Graham Gooch’s 71(84) and Derek Randall’s 42(50)  England amassed a total of 221 after tottering at 4/98 at one stage.  Chasing 222 , New Zealand began well with John Wright 69(137) coming good. However, the Kiwis lost wickets at crucial moments and fell short by 9 runs with 14 needed of the last over.  The other semi final between Pakistan and the West Indies also proved to be an interesting outing with Majid Khan 81(124) and Zaheer Abbas 93(122) leading the fightback for Pakistan in their chase of 294. However, after the partnership broke Pakistan batting fell like ninepins and the entire team were skittled out for 250 handing the defending champions a 43 run win and a place in the finals for a second successive time.

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In the Grand Finale, England took on the West Indies. West Indies were tottering at 4/99 when Vivian “King” Richards 138 not out(157) and Collis King 86(66) steadied the innings and guided the team to 286. In reply England began well with Mike Brearley 64(130) and Geoff Boycott  57(105) putting on 129 for the first wicket. After their dismissal the asking run rate cripled up and the entire team bundled out for 194 with Joel Garner becoming the pick of the bowlers with a figure of 5/38

The Caribbeans, thus, were crowned champions for the second successive time.