The turning point moments in World Cup Cricket & Sensex

The Sensex, India's benchmark stock index, has traversed a remarkable journey since its inception in 1986. Just like a cricket World Cup match that ebbs and flows with thrilling moments, the Sensex has seen its fair share of ups and downs. In this blog, we'll delve into the critical turning points in the Sensex's trajectory, highlighting its resilience, growth, and ability to mirror the Indian economy.

1) 1983, world cup- India-west Indies match

It was a magical delivery, firmly etched in my memory. It swung out, pitched and seamed back into the stumps. The West Indian opener Gordon Greenidge shouldered arms only to realise that the ball moved back in late. A desperate thrust of his pads didn’t help. Balwinder Singh Sandhu’s joy was boundless.

That was in 1983 when India entered the final at Lord’s, beating all odds. West Indies were favorites to win a hat-trick of titles and India’s total of 183 wasn’t inspiring either.

They needed a miracle. Sandhu provided just that, putting India firmly on the path to their maiden triumph.

2) 1992, World cup: Semifinal match England - South Africa

In 1992 , England’s semi-final against South Africa stood out. England posted 252 for 6 thanks to 83 from Graeme Hick. South Africa were always up with the rate — until it rained. They needed 22 off 13 balls with McMillan and Richardson well set before two overs were lost.

It was pre-Duckworth/Lewis so Richie Benaud did the workings and the target was reduced to 21 runs off one ball! How it was calculated remains a mystery. England went on to lose against Pakistan in the final.

3) 2003, world cup: Final match-India- Australia

Indian cricket fans, were too young to savor the Men in Blue’s triumph in 1983, were delirious with joy when India took on Australia in the 2003 World Cup final at Johannesburg. It was the first time that India was making the final since 1983, while the defending champions were eyeing their third World Cup.

The dream, however, quickly turned into a nightmare with Ricky Ponting hammering an unbeaten 140 off 121 balls. The mammoth target of 360 proved too much for India who were bowled out for 234. I believe that Zaheer Khan, who was smashed for 67 runs in seven overs, cost us the match. Egged on by his teammates, he chose to expend his energies more on sledging than bowling in the right areas. Even the dependable Javagal Srinath went for 87 in his 10 overs.

The overconfident Indian team paid a heavy price for taunting a cornered tiger.

4) 1996, World cup: Final match: Australia -Srilanka

Sri Lanka was crowned World Cup champions in 1996 for the first time ever.Australia were the favourites in final as the Sri Lankans had never reached even Super 8 before 1996. Australia scored 241 for seven and Sri Lanka had relied heavily on their fiery openers Sanath Jayasuriya and Romesh Kaluwitharana for a cracking start. But they fell early. However, Aravinda de Silva played a match-winning knock of 107 not out and captain Arjuna Ranatunaga finished off the match with a boundary.

What a moment! Sri Lanka won the World Cup in style.

5) 1983, World cup: Final Match: India –West Indies

India’s spectacular performance despite low score of 183.From an underdog to the chamion was an unparallel. Clive Lloyd needing a runner, Marshall’s incredible run-up, Kapil Dev’s stunning catch to dismiss Viv Richards and the increasing excitement among the India fans as Kapil Dev’s lads first clung on through the world’s best bowlers, then ripped through the world’s best batsmen for a stunning victory. Even looking at a list of the players still evokes a smile — Holding, Big Bird Garner, Marshall, Greenidge, Richards, Gavaskar, Srikkanth, Kapil Dev and the Supercat himself, Clive Lloyd. What legends. This was One of the best matches ever seen.

6) 1992, World Cup: Pakistan-England

Pakistan had a poor start, but turned around remarkably! Pakistan won just one out of the five games, and were all out for 74 against England. Due to Pakistan’s good luck the match was abandoned due to heavy rain, providing them with one vital point. Imran Khan and team must have realised that this is their last chance, leading a complete turnaround.

Pakistan won the next four matches in a row — beating Australia, Sri Lanka and New Zealand twice including the semi-final — to meet England in the final. Imran took the final wicket of Illingworth to seal Pakistan’s most-famous win, as Pakistan lifted the trophy for the first time.

Conclusion:

The Sensex's journey, reminiscent of a thrilling cricket match, has been filled with exhilarating twists and unexpected turns. It has weathered numerous crises, scandals, and economic reforms, emerging as a resilient indicator of India's financial health. As it enters its fourth decade, the Sensex continues to offer a valuable benchmark for investors and reflects the ever-evolving Indian economy. While the path may be unpredictable, one thing remains certain - the Sensex's journey is far from over, and it will continue to play a pivotal role in the Indian equity market.

Disclaimer: Mutual Fund Investments are subject to market risks.Read all scheme related documents carefully