The hallmark of a true genius lies in lifting one’s game a notch higher when the situation demands it the most. And when it comes to situations, there is perhaps none bigger than a World Cup final, and the unmatched pressure that accompanies it.
While Australia have, hands down, dominated the competition as a team, with five titles, several players from other teams have stood out with their peerless performances. Ahead of the 2019 finale, we compile a list of superstars who set the stage on fire with their performances in the finals of past editions of the World Cup, and put them together to make a world-class XI.
1. Adam Gilchrist
Chasing 287, England’s top order took them to 182-2, before the pressure of an elevating run-rate, and Joel Garner’s mid-innings magic, derailed them. Garner dismissed the well-set Gooch, and four balls later, cleaned up David Gower to kickstart a fightback. He later returned to feast on the tail, finishing with figures of 11-0-38-5, and sending England hurtling at 194 all out.
5-38 v England, 1979
PLAYER PROFILE
