Cricket World Cup History & Records

At the time this question was likely authored, Mike Hussey held one of the highest career averages in ODI cricket (finishing at 48.15) and Test cricket. While Michael Bevan (53.58) and MS Dhoni (50.57) had higher ODI averages, Hussey was frequently cited for his exceptional consistency across formats during his peak years.

The West Indies won the inaugural Cricket World Cup in 1975, defeating Australia by 17 runs in the final at Lord's. Led by Clive Lloyd, the West Indies dominated the tournament with powerful batting. India (1983 winner), Sri Lanka (1996 winner), and Pakistan (1992 winner) did not win in 1975.

Adam Gilchrist holds the record for most ODI catches by a wicket-keeper with 472 dismissals (416 catches + 56 stumpings) in his international career. Mark Boucher is close but has fewer dismissals. Moin Khan and Kumar Sangakkara, while great wicket-keepers, did not surpass Gilchrist's record.

West Indies won the 1979 Cricket World Cup by defeating England in the final at Lord's. This was their second consecutive World Cup victory, reinforcing their dominance in ODI cricket during that era.

Pakistan's wicketkeeper Moin Khan holds the record for most stumpings in ODI cricket with 44 stumpings. He was known for his quick reflexes behind the stumps and ability to dismiss batsmen on the charge.

India won the 1983 Cricket World Cup by defeating the mighty West Indies in the final at Lord's. This victory was a turning point for Indian cricket and is considered one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history.

Sanath Jayasuriya holds the record for most ODI matches played with 445 appearances for Sri Lanka. His long international career spanned from 1990 to 2011, making him one of the most experienced players in ODI history.

Australia won the 1987 Cricket World Cup, defeating England in the final at Kolkata's Eden Gardens. This was the first World Cup held outside England and marked the beginning of Australia's dominance in world cricket.

Pakistan won the 1992 Cricket World Cup under the captaincy of Imran Khan, defeating England in the final at Melbourne. This victory was particularly special as it was Pakistan's first and only World Cup win to date.

Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid hold the record for highest ODI partnership with 331 runs against New Zealand in 1999. This partnership was built on excellent running between wickets and solid batting technique.

Sri Lanka won the 1996 Cricket World Cup by defeating Australia in the final at Lahore. This was Sri Lanka's first and only World Cup victory, achieved under the captaincy of Arjuna Ranatunga with stellar performances by Sanath Jayasuriya and Aravinda de Silva.

Australia won the 1999 Cricket World Cup by defeating Pakistan in the final at Lord's. This was Australia's second World Cup title, continuing their dominant era in world cricket. India and South Africa were strong contenders but were eliminated in earlier rounds.

Australia won the 2003 Cricket World Cup, defeating India in the final at Johannesburg. This victory made Australia the first team to win three consecutive World Cups (1999, 2003, 2007). Sri Lanka, West Indies, and New Zealand were eliminated in earlier stages.