How the ultimate underdogs conquered the world.
66-1
They had only won a single match in the two previous World Cups combined.
West Indies
Two-time champions who had NEVER lost a World Cup match. A team of legends like Viv Richards, Clive Lloyd, and a terrifying pace quartet.
India
A young team led by Kapil Dev, considered rank outsiders with almost no chance of competing against the titans of the era.
On June 9, 1983, two seismic shocks in Group B blew the tournament wide open, proving no one was invincible.
India vs. West Indies
India achieved the impossible, handing the West Indies their first-ever World Cup defeat. Yashpal Sharma's 89 anchored a 34-run victory.
Zimbabwe vs. Australia
In their first ever ODI, part-timers from Zimbabwe stunned Australia, with captain Duncan Fletcher leading them to a historic 13-run win.
In a must-win match against Zimbabwe, India collapsed to a disastrous 17 for 5. Then, the captain walked in.
Kapil Dev's Mythical Innings
175*
From just 138 balls
It was the highest score in ODI history at the time, an innings that rescued India from elimination and forged the belief they could win from any situation. It was never televised, adding to its legendary status.
After the group stage, four teams remained. The West Indies and India advanced from the chaotic Group B.
India vs. England
India won by 6 wickets
West Indies vs. Pakistan
West Indies won by 8 wickets
India vs. West Indies
Lord's, London
183
A meagre total. A third West Indian title seemed a formality.
"The Catch"
Kapil Dev's incredible running catch to dismiss a rampant Viv Richards changed the course of history.
140
The champions crumbled under pressure. India won by 43 runs.
India lifted the trophy without a single batsman in the tournament's top 4 run-scorers, proving it was the ultimate team effort.