On This Day, November 8: A thrilling final match at Eden Gardens culminated in the first-ever World Cup title for Australia at the expense of their arch-rival England. Chasing 253 runs, England began well but Australia tightened the pressure at the right time to go on and snatch a thrilling seven-run victory.

Australia made 253 and set a good competitive score built from the base of a solid 75 by David Boon and a late onslaught of 45 by Mike Veletta.

Australia won the toss and chose to bat first on the packed Eden Gardens ground. It was helped by opener David Boon, who batted to a composed 75 that helped anchor the innings and early shower Mike Veletta’s late, brisk 45 pace up to 253.

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England’s Strength And Turning Point

England, in their second World Cup final, did well in their chase of 254. They managed to get to 135 for 2 and both Mike Gatting and Allan Lamb were still in the process of getting England home. However, an important moment in the game came when Gatting, attempting a reverse sweep off Allan Border, top-edged the ball straight back to wicket-keeper Greg Dyer to give Australia the much-needed breakthrough.

Australia Tightens The Noose And Wins By 7 Runs

Though they required 102 from the last 15 overs, the pressure mounted as pressure was working for Australia. Steve Waugh came in to stop Allan Lamb (45) exactly when the situation called for it. Then the bowlers of Australia contracted it and proved it successful by winning the match by just seven runs.

David Boon Was Named ‘Player Of The Match’

David Boon being Man of the Match was as good as it got given the 75 off the bat. It was his steady performance at the top that pegged the Australian team to successfully win Australia’s first-ever World Cup.

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