Top 7 Most Unexpected Upsets in History
Discover the 7 biggest cricket upsets that shocked the world — from World Cup stunners to historic underdog triumphs that no one saw coming.
When David Defeated Goliath
Cricket is often predictable — the stronger team wins, the big stars shine, and form dictates results. But sometimes, the script breaks. A team written off by critics, underestimated by opponents, and ignored by fans suddenly rises. These cricket upsets are not just wins — they are shockwaves that ripple across generations.
From World Cups to one-off miracles, here are the Top 7 Most Unexpected Upsets in Cricket History that stunned the world.
1. India Defeats West Indies – 1983 World Cup Final
Venue: Lord’s, England
Winner Odds: Nearly 1 in 100
India were underdogs. West Indies were two-time defending champions with legends like Viv Richards, Garner, and Holding. No one gave India a chance — not even their own media.
The Shock:
India defended just 183 runs, thanks to a magical performance from Madan Lal, Mohinder Amarnath, and an iconic Kapil Dev catch.
Why It’s Iconic:
It changed Indian cricket forever. The upset birthed a billion-dollar cricketing nation.
2. Kenya Beats West Indies – 1996 World Cup
Venue: Pune, India
Match Context: Group Stage
West Indies, with Lara and Ambrose, were expected to cruise through. Kenya, a team of part-timers, hadn’t won a single World Cup match.
The Shock:
Kenya bowled out West Indies for just 93 and won by 73 runs.
Why It’s Iconic:
It was a global eye-opener — associate nations could win, and giants could fall.
3. Bangladesh Beats Pakistan – 1999 World Cup
Venue: Northampton, England
Match Context: Group Stage
Bangladesh, then a non-Test-playing nation, had never beaten a top-tier team. Pakistan, meanwhile, had Wasim, Waqar, Shoaib, Inzamam — and were tournament favorites.
The Shock:
Bangladesh posted 223 and bowled out Pakistan for 161, triggering wild celebrations.
Why It’s Iconic:
It fast-tracked Bangladesh’s Test status and birthed a new cricketing nation.
4. Ireland Beats England – 2011 World Cup
Venue: Bengaluru, India
Match Context: Group Stage
England posted a daunting 327. Ireland, chasing against Anderson, Broad, and Swann, looked doomed at 111/5.
The Shock:
Kevin O’Brien smashed the fastest World Cup century (50 balls) and led Ireland to a historic chase with 3 balls to spare.
Why It’s Iconic:
It remains one of the greatest one-day chases in history — from an associate team.
5. Afghanistan Beats England – 2023 World Cup
Venue: Delhi, India
Match Context: Group Stage
England were defending champions. Afghanistan had never beaten a top team in a 50-over World Cup. The English batting lineup was stacked.
The Shock:
Afghanistan scored 284 and then spun a web with Rashid Khan and Mujeeb, dismissing England for 215.
Why It’s Iconic:
It symbolized Afghanistan’s rise and England’s fall from dominance.
6. Netherlands Beats South Africa – 2022 T20 World Cup
Venue: Adelaide Oval, Australia
Match Context: Group Stage
South Africa just had to win to qualify. Netherlands, considered minnows, had nothing to lose.
The Shock:
Netherlands defended 158, with sharp bowling and stunning fielding, eliminating South Africa.
Why It’s Iconic:
It was a knockout punch from a non-Test nation — and South Africa’s reputation as chokers deepened.
7. Zimbabwe Beats Australia – 1983 World Cup
Venue: Trent Bridge, England
Match Context: Group Stage
This was Zimbabwe’s very first ODI ever. Australia, led by Hughes and Marsh, were seasoned pros.
The Shock:
Duncan Fletcher’s all-round brilliance (69* & 4 wickets) stunned the Aussies.
Why It’s Iconic:
It was the ultimate cricket fairytale — a debut team beating the mighty Aussies.
Honorable Mentions
Sri Lanka beats India – 2022 Asia Cup Super 4s
Bangladesh beats India – 2007 World Cup
Scotland beats England – 2018 ODI
India loses to Zimbabwe – 1999 Coca-Cola Cup
What Makes a Great Cricket Upset?
⚔️ Disparity in Rankings – One team is clearly stronger on paper.
😲 No Prior Wins – The underdog had no historic edge.
🧠 Tactical Brilliance – Underdogs outthink, not just outplay.
❤️ Emotional Aftermath – The win means everything to the team and fans.
The Magic of the Unexpected
Cricket isn’t just about sixes, centuries, or captaincy — it’s about belief. When underdogs win, they inspire generations. These upsets tell us that anything is possible. That cricket is a game of skill, yes — but also of spirit.
And as long as there are teams willing to dream big, the next historic upset is always one ball away.
About the Creator
shadow A K
i am a content creator at E2
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