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The Times of India
The Times of India
Sport
TOI Sports Desk | TIMESOFINDIA.COM

On this day in 1987, Australia became the ODI world champions for the first time

On this day 37 years ago, Australia dethroned India as ODI champions in the 1987 World Cup when they defeated England in the final played in front of a packed Eden Gardens stadium in Kolkata.

It was the first world title won by Australia, who were led in the tournament by Allan Border.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Australia posted 253 for 5, inspired by 'Player of the Match' David Boon's 75 and a 31-ball cameo of 45 by Mike Valetta towards the end of the innings. Border contributed a run-a-ball 31, while Dean Jones made 34.

Eddie Hemmings was Australia's best bowler on the day with figures of 2 for 48.

England's chase was given momentum by the second-wicket partnership between Graham Gooch (35) and Bill Athey (58), but the latter's run-out broke that stand of 65 runs.

The English team, however, didn't lose control and looked to be cruising at 135 for 2, but skipper Mike Gatting (41) was dismissed by Allan Border, trying to reverse-sweep.

Allan Lamb's (45) wicket 35 runs later brought Australia back in the contest. He was cleaned up by Steve Waugh.

It ended up as a thrilling last-over finish, with the Aussies winning by seven runs to lift the trophy.

Waugh (2 for 37) and Border (2 for 38) were the main contributors with the ball for the winners.

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