The 2023 World Cup has been one of the most exciting ones in history, full of twists, turns and upsets. The staggering level of individual moments has surpassed anything from the past. There were a few upsets along the way with Afghanistan and the Netherlands showing the world what they are capable of. 

Players like Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Adam Zampa, Rachin Ravindra, and Mohammed Shami create some iconic moments. The cricket-crazy nation of India has witnessed the master of the cricketing craft in action. 

It is not easy to pick the top 25 moments at this World Cup. But let’s try to delve deep into the annals for the future-  a story of creed, culture, celebration and adrenaline.

1. Glenn the “Big Show” Maxwell Exceeds the Limits of Human Capacity

The seventh wicket fell for just 91 runs. How the mighty have fallen! Australia were still 201 runs from victory when their skipper Pat Cummins came to the middle to join Glenn Maxwell. The Bravehearts from Afghanistan could sense the smell of victory teasing their nostrils. Wankhede Stadium was bracing itself for one of the biggest upsets in the history of the game. Then one man stood strong. He could just stand on only one leg. That was enough for the Victorians. Glenn James Maxwell played with pain to give the Afghans the biggest ever heartbreak possible. 

Maxwell could not move his body. The cramp was too much even for an international cricketer. Adam Zampa was battle-ready to come out, but Maxwell was adamant. He survived 128 balls. 31 one of them reached the boundary. He hit 21 fours and 10 sixes – an astounding display of wrist strength and iron will. In a partnership of 202 runs, Pat Cummins contributed just 12. Probably the best 12 of his career. Afghan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi threw everything at Maxwell, but it wasn’t to be. 

The loudest cheer at Wankhede could have been mistaken for the game taking place in Melbourne or Sydney. But that came for an Australian, a right-handed batsman from Victoria. Australia needed 5 from the last 20 balls. Maxwell himself required 5 to reach the first double century by an Australian at the ODIs. Maxwell launched the fifth ball of the 47 over midwicket. The whole gallery erupted. The battle-worn warrior spread his hands like an almighty gladiator vanquishing his opponent. The rise smile said it all: the unthinkable has been achieved. 

2. King Kohli Captures Kolkata with New Record

After so many years, finally, the moment came. Virat Kohli, the Indian superstar, achieved a remarkable milestone by securing his 50th ODI century. As the Mumbai crowd erupted in thunderous applause, Kohli, brimming with pride, rose from his knees, removing his helmet to acknowledge the adulation showered upon him. Turning his gaze toward his wife, renowned movie actress Anushka Sharma, he blew her heartfelt kisses, encapsulating the emotion of the moment.

Notably, the Indian stalwart paid tribute to his cricketing idol and the man whose record he had just surpassed – Sachin Tendulkar. With a gesture of deep respect, Kohli bowed towards Tendulkar, expressing gratitude for the legend who had paved the way for his remarkable achievements within the hallowed grounds of the Wankhede stadium.

Adding to the allure of the occasion, football icon David Beckham, on his first visit to India, seized the opportune moment to congratulate Kohli, further amplifying the significance of this feat. With the stage set for the Cricket World Cup semifinals against New Zealand, Kohli continued his relentless display of dominance throughout the tournament. His unbeaten knocks of 103 against Bangladesh and 101 against South Africa had already left spectators in awe. However, it was this particular innings of 117 runs that transcended greatness and shattered a record believed to be unbreakable.

The esteemed Sachin Tendulkar, the highest run-scorer in ODI and test cricket had taken 452 innings to compile his incredible tally of 49 ODI centuries. Astonishingly, Kohli surpassed this milestone in just 279 innings and his 291st ODI appearance. Tendulkar’s impact was profound, as he had been Kohli’s childhood cricketing idol. A poignant moment occurred in 2011, when Tendulkar joyfully lifted Kohli on his shoulders, parading around the Wankhede stadium after India triumphed in the World Cup.

Understandably, Kohli was overcome with emotion as he flicked New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson to backward square leg for the winning runs, reaching the coveted century mark. With arms raised triumphantly, he leapt into the air before sinking to his knees, his gaze directed towards the heavens. It was a poignant tribute to his journey and the realization of a dream

3. Ravindra Lights Up the Opening Game with a Dazzling Ton

Ravi Krishnamurthi is a software engineer hailing from Bangalore. The man lives and breathes cricket. He named his son Rachin, a portmanteau of the Indian cricketing greats Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar’s first names. The 23-year-old all-rounder made his father and the whole nation proud when he came to bat against the reigning champions in the opening game. In an unbeaten 273 stand with Devon Conway, Ravindra brought home victory for the Kiwis with relative ease. 

Ravindra may be a New Zealander, but his shots reminded me more of the continental style, grace and poise. The elegant cut shots, the majestic pulls and the artistic straight drives showed a man matured beyond his age. Ravindra was fluent against the pacers and spin – hitting four sixes and nine boundaries in his innings. It is not for a World Cup debutant to fill in the shoes of Kane Williamson. But Rachin Ravindra showed no sign of nerves after coming out to bat at Narendra Modi Stadium. 

The century came on the 31st. It just took 82 balls. Ravindra steered the fourth ball of the over towards midwicket. He took his helmet and soaked in the applause of the iconic stadium. A young boy returned to the country of his parents and conquered. The smiling face of the Ravindra lad will be etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts forever. 

4. Jadeja Stuns the Protea with a Fifer

He can bat. He can bowl, He is the best fielder in the world. Along with Mohammed Siraj, Ravindra Jadeja demonstrated his skill and prowess, wreaking havoc in the Proteas’ batting lineup. The Indian bowlers proved to be a formidable force, inflicting trouble right from the early overs. It all began with a crucial breakthrough by Siraj in the second over, as Quinton de Kock chopped the ball onto his stumps, falling victim to the fast bowler’s accuracy and skill. Meanwhile, Jadeja showcased his brilliance, sending Temba Bavuma’s stumps flying with a delivery that turned sharply past the outside edge of the bat.

As the game progressed, the South African batsmen faced an uphill battle against the seasoned Indian bowlers and the ageing ball. Jadeja and Mohammed Shami imposed their dominance, dismantling the middle order with remarkable precision. Henrich Klaasen and David Miller succumbed to Jadeja’s guile, while Shami’s impeccable line and length outfoxed Aiden Markram, inducing an outside edge that was gleefully accepted.

Though it initially seemed that India’s premier spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, might not be required, the stubborn resistance of South Africa’s lower order prompted his introduction. Kuldeep confounded the batsmen with his assortment of variations, twisting the ball both ways and claiming two vital wickets. Jadeja, not to be outdone, achieved a milestone of his own, capturing his second five-wicket haul in ODI cricket. Additionally, he etched his name in history by becoming the second Indian spinner, after Yuvraj Singh, to achieve a five-for in World-accepted

5. Afghans Write History with Braveheart Cricket

In a stunning turn of events at the Delhi cricket stadium, the reigning World Cup champions, England, were dealt a heavy blow by a resurgent Afghanistan team. The match unfolded with Afghanistan showcasing their mettle in both batting and bowling, resulting in a memorable victory that marked their first-ever win over England in any format.

The contest began with Afghanistan taking the crease and demonstrating an impressive display of batting prowess. Despite a lacklustre bowling performance from England, Afghanistan’s determined batsmen managed to pile up a respectable total of 284 runs before being bowled out. The achievement was highlighted by the solid contributions from their top-order batsmen who unleashed a flurry of boundaries and displayed exemplary shot selection.

The stage was set for England’s response, with the cricketing world awaiting their usual formidable display with the bat. However, much to everyone’s surprise, England’s batting lineup struggled under the mounting pressure imposed by Afghanistan’s bowlers. The English batters crumbled one after the other, unable to find a foothold against the relentless Afghan attack. The innings came to a close when their last wicket fell, leaving England trailing at a modest 215 runs.

The shocking outcome of the match reverberated throughout the cricketing community, and the jubilant celebrations of Afghanistan’s fans reverberated in the stadium. This victory held immense significance for Afghanistan, as it not only marked their maiden triumph over England but also their second-ever win in a 50-over World Cup, further elevating their status on the international cricket stage.

Buoyed by their triumph over England, Afghanistan continued their remarkable run by securing another impressive victory, this time against their formidable rivals, Pakistan. The match showcased the same level of determination and skill displayed in their encounter with England, leaving cricket enthusiasts in awe of Afghanistan’s rising potential.

Afghanistan’s top three batters delivered exceptional performances, with each scoring fifties to solidify their team’s command over the match. Their captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, led by example, crafting an unbeaten 48 runs to guide his team towards a challenging victory target of 283 runs. The Afghan victory over Pakistan not only cemented their growing reputation but also marked their first-ever One Day International (ODI) win against their neighbouring rivals.

The triumphs over both England and Pakistan served as defining moments in Afghanistan’s cricketing journey. These victories showcased their ability to compete with and triumph over some of the world’s best teams, underlining their potential as a rising force in international cricket. As Afghanistan’s players and fans rejoiced in their remarkable achievements, the wider cricketing world celebrated their resilience, spirit, and unwavering resolve.

6. Markram Scores a Stunning Ton in the Opener

In a display of pure dominance, South African batsman Aiden Markram stole the spotlight with a breathtaking century that showcased both power and control. His innings of 106 runs off just 54 balls was a masterclass in aggressive yet calculated batting, boasting an astonishing control percentage of 90% at a formidable strike rate of 196.29. It was a century that left spectators in awe, completely overshadowing the two other centuries scored in the innings.

Even though Quinton de Kock managed to reach his hundred in 83 deliveries and Rassie van der Dussen in just 103, their remarkable achievements were somewhat overshadowed by Markram’s brilliance. The partnership between de Kock and van der Dussen produced an impressive 204 runs for the second wicket, setting the stage for the onslaught of runs that followed. However, it was Markram who truly exemplified the ruthless approach adopted by the South African batsmen, stunning the Sri Lankan bowling attack with his audacious strokeplay.

From the moment he stepped onto the crease, Markram asserted his aggressive intent with a trio of boundaries, including two textbook straight drives off the bowling of Madushanka. However, it was against Matheesha Pathirana that Markram unleashed his most devastating assault. In a menacing display of power hitting, Markram smashed three boundaries and a six, accumulating 26 runs in a single over towards the end of the innings. After reaching the milestone of his half-century in a relatively modest 34 deliveries, he wasted no time in reaching his century, needing only an additional 15 balls to achieve the remarkable feat.

Markram’s century was not only a testament to his skill and composure, but it also symbolised the aggressive and fearless brand of cricket that South Africa exhibited throughout the innings. His outstanding performance left fans and pundits alike marvelling at his talent and ability to dismantle the opposing bowling attack. The sheer speed at which he accumulated runs, combined with his unwavering control over his shots, showcased a rare blend of audacity and finesse that set him apart from his peers.

Markram was one of the three batsmen who touched the magical three-figure mark in the game for South Africa. Quinton de Kock scored the first century of his World Cup career after reaching the milestone in just 83 balls. Rassie van der Dussen also played a remarkable innings of 108 from 110 balls. This was the second instance where three batsmen from the same side scored individual hundreds.

The match will be remembered for Markram’s breathtaking century, a display that etched his name in cricketing history. His innings not only propelled South Africa to an imposing total but also served as a reminder of the destructive potential possessed by their batting lineup. It was a performance that left spectators exhilarated and Sri Lanka in utter disbelief, serving as a stark reminder of the immense talent and skill that Markram possesses.

7. The Netherlands stunned South Africa at Dharamshala

The Dutch got one over their Boer brothers to light up the World Cup. The stage was set in Dharamsala, with wet conditions delaying the start of the match between South Africa and Netherlands by two hours and reducing the game to 43 overs per side. As expected, South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first.

In the seventh over of the match, Kagiso Rabada made an immediate impact as he dismissed Singh with a cleverly delivered ball. Singh attempted to pull but ended up top-edging it high in the air. Wicket-keeper Heinrich Klaasen showcased excellent athleticism, running a long way from slip to take a brilliant diving catch.

An over later, all-rounder Jacques Snyman was caught behind by Quinton de Kock off the bowling of Gerald Coetzee, although the South Africans had to review the decision to confirm the dismissal. By the end of the first powerplay, the Netherlands were struggling at 28 for 2.

South Africa’s seamers continued to dominate, hitting the right lengths consistently. Captain Temba Bavuma utilised the team’s review wisely, as seen in Rabada’s dismissal of Bas de Leede, an lbw to a ball that nipped back off a length outside off stump. Hawk-Eye showed that the ball would have hit the top of the middle stump.

Coetzee struck again, resulting in the dismissal of Colin Ackermann, who dragged the ball onto his stumps. Lungi Ngidi had Sybrand Engelbrecht caught by Sisanda Magala at deep fine leg, breaking a 32-run partnership with Teja Nidamanuru. The Netherlands struggled to forge significant partnerships, with their highest partnership of the innings being between Edwards and van der Merwe. Jansen’s fumble on the boundary, when Nidamanuru was on 14, proved to be the only blemish for South Africa at that point.

However, South Africa’s performance started to waver as they started leaking runs and making fielding errors. Edwards and van der Merwe took advantage of the situation, with van der Merwe smashing 15 runs off one Coetzee over, including a six-over deep third. Edwards also contributed by hitting Rabada for a six over deep square leg. Together, they added 64 runs for the eighth wicket.

Ngidi attempted to bring South Africa back on track with a well-executed slow bouncer that van der Merwe sent flying towards short third. De Kock moved swiftly to gather the ball, but not before the Netherlands reached a respectable total of 204 for 8.

In the later stages of the innings, Dutt and Edwards continued the Netherlands’ push, forming an unbroken partnership worth 41 runs. Dutt’s unbeaten 23 off just nine balls, which included three sixes hit over long-on, deep midwicket, and even out of the ground beyond the deep square, presented South Africa with a daunting challenge, akin to the towering Himalayas overlooking the stadium.

As the innings concluded, South Africa found themselves facing a formidable target, with the Netherlands having made a remarkable recovery. The match had taken an unexpected turn, leaving South Africa with a mountain to climb in their pursuit of victory. The match in Dharamsala proved that cricket has an uncanny ability to deliver surprises, reminding us that no match is ever truly predictable.

The stage was set in Dharamsala, with wet conditions delaying the start of the match between South Africa and Netherlands by two hours and reducing the game to 43 overs per side. As expected, South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first. In the seventh over of the match, Kagiso Rabada made an immediate impact as he dismissed Singh with a cleverly delivered ball. Singh attempted to pull but ended up top-edging it high in the air. Wicket-keeper Heinrich Klaasen showcased excellent athleticism, running a long way from slip to take a brilliant diving catch.

An over later, all-rounder Jacques Snyman was caught behind by Quinton de Kock off the bowling of Gerald Coetzee, although the South Africans had to review the decision to confirm the dismissal. By the end of the first powerplay, the Netherlands were struggling at 28 for 2. South Africa’s seamers continued to dominate, hitting the right lengths consistently. Captain Temba Bavuma utilized the team’s review wisely, as seen in Rabada’s dismissal of Bas de Leede, an lbw to a ball that nipped back off a length outside off stump. Hawk-Eye showed that the ball would have hit the top of the middle stump.

Coetzee struck again, resulting in the dismissal of Colin Ackermann, who dragged the ball onto his stumps. Lungi Ngidi had Sybrand Engelbrecht caught by Sisanda Magala at deep fine leg, breaking a 32-run partnership with Teja Nidamanuru.

The Netherlands struggled to forge significant partnerships, with their highest partnership of the innings being between Edwards and van der Merwe. Jansen’s fumble on the boundary, when Nidamanuru was on 14, proved to be the only blemish for South Africa at that point.

However, South Africa’s performance started to waver as they started leaking runs and making fielding errors. Edwards and van der Merwe took advantage of the situation, with van der Merwe smashing 15 runs off one Coetzee over, including a six-over deep third. Edwards also contributed by hitting Rabada for a six over deep square leg. Together, they added 64 runs for the eighth wicket. Ngidi attempted to bring South Africa back on track with a well-executed slow bouncer that van der Merwe sent flying towards short third. De Kock moved swiftly to gather the ball, but not before the Netherlands reached a respectable total of 204 for 8.

In the later stages of the innings, Dutt and Edwards continued the Netherlands’ push, forming an unbroken partnership worth 41 runs. Dutt’s unbeaten 23 off just nine balls, which included three sixes hit over long-on, deep midwicket, and even out of the ground beyond the deep square, presented South Africa with a daunting challenge, akin to the towering Himalayas overlooking the stadium.

As the innings concluded, South Africa found themselves facing a formidable target, with the Netherlands having made a remarkable recovery. The match had taken an unexpected turn, leaving South Africa with a mountain to climb in their pursuit of victory. The match in Dharamsala proved that cricket has an uncanny ability to deliver surprises, reminding us that no match is ever truly predictable.

8. Resilient Rizwan Wins it Despite Nursing a Cramp

Sri Lanka experienced a tough lesson in the unforgiving world of modern ODI cricket as Pakistan achieved an extraordinary feat by successfully chasing down a monumental target of 345 runs. This remarkable chase not only secured a well-deserved victory for Pakistan but also set a new record for the highest-ever chase in a World Cup match. Spearheading Pakistan’s charge were Abdullah Shafique and Mohammad Rizwan, whose outstanding centuries outshone the impressive batting display by Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama of Sri Lanka, ensuring a flawless record of two wins in two matches for the Pakistani team.

Despite facing seemingly debilitating cramps throughout the last 15 overs of the chase, Rizwan displayed immense determination and remained unbeaten at the end of the innings, scoring a brilliant 131 runs off 121 balls. His exceptional partnership with Shafique, who himself etched his name in history by recording the highest score by a Pakistan debutant at a World Cup with his impressive knock of 113 runs off 103 balls, proved to be a game-changing alliance. Together, they constructed a third-wicket stand worth 176 runs off a mere 156 deliveries, effectively breaking the spine of Sri Lanka’s pursuit.

However, even with such a remarkable partnership, Pakistan’s victory may not have been assured had it not been for Rizwan’s heroic resilience until the very end. In the latter stages of the innings, he combined with Saud Shakeel to add a further 95 runs off just 68 deliveries, followed by another invaluable partnership with Iftikhar Ahmed, contributing 37 runs off a mere 23 balls. Rizwan’s unwavering commitment and ability to navigate through his physical challenges played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s eventual comfortable victory.

9. Angelo Gets Timed Out by Bangladesh

Bangladesh beat Sri Lanka in their penultimate game of the World Cup. Amid Sri Lanka’s innings, an incident unfolded that would leave a lasting impact on the match. It occurred due to a faulty helmet strap worn by Angelo Mathews, causing a delay of over two minutes before the new batsman could take strike after the fall of the previous wicket. Seizing the opportunity, Shakib Al Hasan of Bangladesh appealed, resulting in Mathews being given out.

The tournament playing conditions state that the incoming batsman must be ready to face the ball, or for the other batsman to be ready to receive the next delivery, within two minutes of dismissal or retirement, unless Time has been called. Failure to meet this requirement leads to the incoming batsman being declared out and timed out. Mathews, understandably frustrated, had to make his way back to the pavilion, leaving Sri Lanka to contend with a sense of injustice throughout the remainder of the game.

However, it is important not to dwell solely on this incident, as it would detract from acknowledging the commendable all-round performance displayed by Bangladesh and particularly, Shakib Al Hasan. Bangladesh exhibited a solid team effort, proving their mettle on the field. Shakib, in particular, stood out with his contributions.

While Sri Lanka battled with a chip on their shoulder, Bangladesh maintained their focus and continued to exhibit their skill and prowess. Shakib, with his astute presence of mind, recognized the opportunity presented by Mathews’ delayed readiness and appealed. His actions not only showcased his understanding of the game but also highlighted the strategic aspect of cricket. It is important to note that Bangladesh’s success should not be overshadowed by a single moment. They displayed cohesion as a team, showcasing their collective talent and determination. Their performance was a testament to their hard work and preparation leading up to the match. But this incident overshadowed the win. “The Spirit of the Game” was under scrutiny once again.

10. Rohit “Record Breaking” Sharma

The Indian skipper Rohit Sharma surpassed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the highest number of centuries at the World Cups. With his majestic century against Afghanistan, Rohit sent shockwaves through the cricketing world and left fans in awe of his talent.

In the match held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, Rohit unleashed a breathtaking display of power hitting. He blazed his way to an impressive 131 runs from just 84 balls, comprising 16 fours and 5 sixes. The sheer dominance and precision with which he attacked the Afghan bowlers were truly remarkable.

Not only did Rohit accumulate runs at a staggering strike rate of 155.95, but he also dispatched the ball to all corners of the ground. The spectators were treated to a spectacular exhibition of batting as he effortlessly found the gaps and cleared the boundary ropes with ease.

India’s chase of 272, set by Afghanistan, quickly turned into a one-sided affair due to Rohit’s brilliance. His scintillating knock made the target seem like a mere formality as he guided the Indian team towards victory. Joined by his teammates, he masterfully orchestrated the chase, minimizing any hiccups along the way.

The Indian skipper’s authoritative innings not only showcased his exceptional talent but also highlighted his ability to handle pressure-filled situations with composure. His performance, marked by confidence and aggression, undoubtedly lifted the spirits of the entire team and left a lasting impression on fans worldwide.

Ultimately, India achieved their victory within a mere 35 overs, leaving ample time to spare. Rohit Sharma’s extraordinary contribution was undoubtedly the turning point of the match, and his record-breaking feat will be etched in the annals of cricketing history.

11. Shami in Seventh Heaven Against the Proteas

In a moment that will be etched in the annals of Indian cricket history, pacer Mohammed Shami accomplished a remarkable feat during the One Day International (ODI) cricket match against New Zealand in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinals. Shami emerged as a trailblazer by becoming the first Indian bowler ever to claim seven wickets in an ODI match.

His scintillating performance with the ball couldn’t have come at a more crucial juncture, as it was a knockout game that would determine India’s fate in the tournament. In a resounding 70-run victory over the Kiwis, Shami displayed phenomenal bowling prowess, conceding a mere 57 runs while taking seven crucial wickets. This outstanding performance secured him the best bowling figures for India in World Cup history, eclipsing the previous record of 6/23 held by Ashish Nehra against England during the 2003 World Cup in Durban.

Shami’s ability to consistently hit exceptional lines and lengths, combined with his express pace, rendered him practically unplayable for the opposition batsmen. His variations, deceptive angles, and sheer speed posed a formidable challenge to the New Zealand batting lineup throughout the match. Shami’s performance was a testament to the relentless determination and skill that he brought to the grandest stage of international cricket.

Additionally, this extraordinary feat also saw Shami become the first Indian bowler to achieve two five-wicket hauls against a single opponent in the World Cup. The only other bowler to achieve this feat is Australia’s Mitchell Starc. This further accentuates Shami’s exceptional abilities with the ball and highlights his effectiveness against a specific opposition in the tournament.

It is worth noting that Shami’s journey in the World Cup had a fascinating twist. Despite being on the bench for the initial six games of the tournament, he returned to the playing XI with an unmistakable resolve and purpose. His comeback was spectacular, leaving an indelible mark with an astounding tally of 23 wickets in just six matches. This showcases the depth and quality of India’s bowling resources, with Shami emerging as a force to be reckoned with, undeterred by his initial role on the sidelines.

12. Maharaj the King of Chase for the Africans

He bowls magical deliveries. A livewire in the field, he can produce memorable moments in the fielding also. But Keshav Maharaj showed his expertise with the bat to claim a memorable victory against Pakistan in a breathtaking game. It was a moment that would forever be etched in Keshav Maharaj’s memory. 

As the ball raced to the fine-leg boundary off Mohammad Nawaz’s delivery, Maharaj exploded into an eruption of joy and relief. Standing alongside his steadfast partner, the No. 11 batsman, he had managed to seal South Africa’s victory against Pakistan in Chennai, breaking free from the suffocating grip of past failures. The waves of relief and elation resonated throughout the dressing room, where his teammates watched with bated breath.

Maharaj’s innings, although brief, carried an immense weight of significance. For 44 tense minutes and 21 hard-fought balls, he displayed extraordinary determination, scraping his way to a mere score of 7 runs. Those 7 runs, however, held immeasurable value, representing a breakthrough in South Africa’s World Cup 2023 campaign. They symbolized a triumph over adversity, encapsulating the grit and resilience that Maharaj and his teammates had summoned in their pursuit of victory.

But it was Aiden Markram who laid the foundation for South Africa’s success. Despite facing challenging conditions, the right-handed batsman exhibited immense skill and composure, crafting a remarkable innings of 91 runs from 93 deliveries. His contribution set the stage for a thrilling climax that would test the nerves of players and spectators alike. As the target neared, the likes of David Miller and Marco Jansen played crucial cameos, ensuring that South Africa remained within striking distance. Their contributions brought the Proteas tantalisingly close to the victory they so desperately sought.

And then came the pivotal moment. With the unfaltering support of Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi, and Tabraiz Shamsi, Maharaj unleashed the winning shot. The ball hurtled towards the boundary, triggering unbridled jubilation among the Protea faithful. The collective roar of the fans was a testament to the emotions that had been building throughout the match, a release of tension and a celebration of the hard-earned triumph.

At that moment, South Africa had not only claimed a victory on the scoreboard but had also conquered the demons of past performances. They had risen above the choking pressure that had haunted them in previous tournaments, defying all odds to seize a crucial win against a formidable opponent. It was a triumph that embodied the camaraderie, resilience, and spirit of the Proteas.

As the players savoured their hard-fought victory, they knew that this win was more than just a tick in the record books. It represented a turning point, a testament to their unwavering belief and fighting spirit. From the elation on Maharaj’s face to the euphoria that engulfed the entire team, this victory would forever hold a special place in their hearts.

13. Oh Jimmy, Not Again!

In a pulsating showdown between Australia and New Zealand, emotions ran high as the Trans-Tasman rivals battled it out on the cricket field. The match was nothing short of a rollercoaster ride, filled with breathtaking moments and heart-stopping suspense. From the explosive partnership of David Warner and Travis Head that propelled Australia past the 200-run mark within 24 overs to New Zealand’s valiant spinners tightening the screws in the middle overs, the stage was set for a monumental clash.

As the innings progressed, it seemed that a colossal total of over 400 was within Australia’s grasp. However, New Zealand’s spin wizards had other plans. With their skilful variations, they managed to rein in the scoring rate, restricting the eventual total to 388. While it was still a formidable target, no one could have predicted the heroics that lay ahead.

Enter Rachin Ravindra, a young dynamo with a willow in hand and an unwavering determination in his eyes. Ravindra’s scintillating knock of 116 off just 89 deliveries set the stage for a nail-biting finish. With Jimmy Neesham playing a crucial supporting role, New Zealand came tantalisingly close to completing a sensational chase.

With seven runs needed off just two balls, the tension reached its zenith. Neesham had his sights set on glory, his bat poised to strike. However, fate had a cruel twist in store. A missed opportunity to connect with a full toss resulted in Neesham being run out as he desperately scrambled to regain the strike. The sight of him diving for his crease, reminiscent of the heart-wrenching 2019 final, left a bitter taste in the mouths of New Zealand supporters.

For the Kiwis, it was a familiar feeling of being agonisingly short of victory against their Australian counterparts. The match had produced a staggering 771 runs, setting a new World Cup record, and yet, the outcome hinged on a mere five runs. It was a testament to the spirit and resilience of both teams, leaving spectators spellbound and captivated until the very last ball.

14. Captain Cool at it Again in the Semi-Final

In a thrilling showdown against South Africa, Australia found themselves in a precarious position. While Glenn Maxwell’s superhuman performance had secured a victory in the previous match, he was a pedestrian with 12 runs scored from 68 deliveries. This time it was the captain, Pat Cummins, who stood tall when it mattered the most. His gritty innings of 14 from 29 balls guided Australia to a hard-fought triumph, with the support of Mitchell Starc from the other end.

The chase began on a positive note for Australia, courtesy of Travis Head’s explosive batting display. With sheer determination, he tore through the Afghan bowling attack, smashing a thunderous 62 off just 48 innings laying a solid foundation for the team, and injecting a surge of hope and belief.

However, as the middle-order batsmen struggled to find their rhythm, challenges presented themselves. Yet, perseverance and resilience became the defining characteristics of the Australian side. It was the lower-order batsmen who stepped up to the plate, displaying unwavering resolve and determination.

In the end, the collective effort paid off, and Australia emerged victorious. The win brought great relief to the team and fans alike, as it was a testament to their never-say-die attitude. Despite the middle-order hiccups, the team’s ability to weather the storm and bounce back was commendable.

The victory for Australia, however, came at the expense of David Miller’s heroic century in the first innings for South Africa. His valiant effort had given his team a fighting chance, but it was overshadowed by Australia’s spirited chase. The Proteas fell short in a semi-final once again, their dreams of a final were shattered due to a lacklustre batting display.

15. Fabulous Fakhar Wins Against Rain in Bengaluru

Fakhar Zaman lost his place, came back and posted an unbelievable century to clinch a crucial rain-hit victory against New Zealand. Pakistan faced an uphill battle, needing a miracle to turn the tides in their favour. Unfortunately, things did not start in their favour as the irrepressible Kane Williamson stunned everyone with a breathtaking catch, dismissing Abdullah Shafique and setting the tone for New Zealand’s dominance.

However, Pakistan had a glimmer of hope in the form of Fakhar Zaman. The left-handed opener unleashed an onslaught on Trent Boult, making his intentions clear from the outset. Fakhar’s attacking batting displayed an array of boundaries, including two fours and a massive six, which made Boult’s over the most expensive of the World Cup so far.

Babar Azam, Pakistan’s batting sensation, also joined in the fireworks, contributing to the growing momentum. The duo’s aggressive approach propelled Pakistan to a solid 75 runs by the end of the powerplay. Fakhar’s batting masterclass escalated further as he reached his half-century with a superb late cut-off Ish Sodhi, signalling that he was just getting started.

Not allowing any respite, Fakhar continued to dominate, taking on Glenn Phillips with a couple of sixes. Even the usually composed Williamson struggled to contain him. Fakhar seemed invincible, launching the ball into the stands with ease. In no time, he had smashed his ninth six off Mitchell Santner and was on the verge of an extraordinary century, which he achieve