ICC Cricket World Cup History: Every Tournament from 1975 to 2023
The ICC Cricket World Cup has been cricket's premier tournament since 1975. Here is a complete guide to every edition, its hosts, and its champions.
The Cricket World Cup began in 1975 in England. Since then, thirteen editions have been played, producing iconic moments, upsets, and champions from across the cricketing world.
The First Three Editions (1975-1983)
West Indies won the inaugural 1975 World Cup and retained the title in 1979, their side featuring Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards and a battery of fast bowlers. India won their first title in 1983 as 66-1 outsiders, beating West Indies in the final at Lord's.
Australian and Pakistani Era (1987-1996)
Australia beat England in a tense 1987 final in Calcutta. Pakistan won in 1992 under Imran Khan. Sri Lanka won the 1996 World Cup with their revolutionary approach — using pinch hitters, targeting the powerplay, and refusing to give away wickets cheaply at the end.
Australia's Dominance (1999-2007)
Australia won three consecutive World Cups in 1999, 2003 and 2007. The 2003 team went through the entire tournament unbeaten. Only South Africa and Kenya troubled them in the group stages.
India and New Era (2011-2023)
India won on home soil in 2011 with MS Dhoni's famous six at Wankhede Stadium. West Indies lifted the trophy in 2012 but had not played in the 50-over event. England won their first title in 2019 on boundary countback. Australia won in 2023 in India, beating India in the final at Ahmedabad.
Frequently asked questions
How many teams play in the Cricket World Cup?
Since 2019, ten teams have contested the final round robin stage. A qualification pathway through regional tournaments and a qualifying event determines which ten nations participate.
Who has scored the most runs in Cricket World Cup history?
Sachin Tendulkar of India holds the record for most runs in Cricket World Cup history with 2,278 runs across six tournaments from 1992 to 2011.