#OTD in 1975 | West Indies won the first edition of the ODI World Cup

On this day in 1975, a spirited West Indies side emerged victorious against Australia, claiming the title in the first-ever edition of the 50-over World Cup at Lord’s. 

A total of eight teams participated in the tournament, comprising six Test-playing nations, Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and West Indies, and two associate countries, Sri Lanka and East Africa.

West Indies won all their three group matches, while Australia lost just one of their group matches against the Caribbean team. 

In the semi-finals, Australia were able to chase down the score of 93 posted by England and secure a four-wicket victory. On the other hand, West Indies beat New Zealand by chasing down the target of 158 and won by five wickets. 

The toss favoured the Ian Chappell-led side in the final, and they opted to field first. 

Roy Fredericks started cautiously, but as he was looking to accelerate the run rate, he had to make his way back to the pavilion following a hit-wicket dismissal off Dennis Lillee, despite hitting the ball for a six. 

Gary Gilmour bowled an accurate length ball to induce the edge of Alvin Kallicharan (13), caught by the wicket-keeper Rod Marsh. 

The other opener Gordon Greenidge took all his time at the crease in the first half of the innings but was dismissed for 13 off 61 balls by Jeff Thomson. 

Captain Clive Lloyd arrived at the crease with attacking intent and started scoring runs across the pitch. Rohan Kahnai (55) supported his skipper and allowed the West Indies to steady the ship. 

The partnership lasted 149 runs before Lloyd was dismissed after playing a terrific inning of 102 off 85 balls, comprising 12 fours and two sixes. 

In the end, West Indies scored 291 following a late flourish from Keith Boyce (34) and Bernard Julien (26). As for Australia, Gilmour returned with five wickets. 

In reply, Australia lost Rick McCosker (7) early on in the chase. Then, Alan Turner and Ian Chappell were able to score runs at a brisk pace, and the odd boundaries provided a platform for the team. 

However, in a mix-up with Chappell, Turner was dismissed for 40 off 54 balls. Then, the Chappell brothers stitched a 34-run stand before Greg was run-out, and Australia were 115/3. 

Ian followed suit and was dismissed by a run-out for 62 off 93 balls, leaving Australia struggling at 170/5. 

The tail-enders tried hard, but Jeff Thomson (21) was run-out in the penultimate over, and the West Indies team won the match by 17 runs. Boyce picked four wickets. 

Clive Lloyd was adjudged Player of the Match.