#OTD in 1979 | West Indies obliterated England to claim their second consecutive World Cup title

The West Indian side in the 70s and the 80s will probably go down as the most daunting and fearsome sides in cricket history. The Caribbean side was recognized as world beaters, obliterating sides with their all-round performances. Hence, it comes as no surprise that 'that West Indian side' defended their World Cup title in 1979 after thrashing England in the finals in their own backyard.

The West Indies claimed the inaugural edition of the World Cup in 1975 after they defeated Australia in the finals. Under Sir Clive Lloyd's impeccable leadership, they successfully defended their title again after four years without facing a single hiccup on the road. West Indies won the 1979 finals by a comfortable margin of 92 runs, courtesy of a brilliant knock from Sir Vivian Richards.

West Indies put up a strong total of 286 runs in the first innings, which was quite a formidable total then. Sir Viv, batting at the number three, scored a magnificent unbeaten knock of 138 runs from 157 balls, which included 11 boundaries and three maximums. He was helped by middle-order batter Collis King, who chipped in with 86 runs as the duo put on a stand of 139 runs for the fifth wicket.

The total of 286 was well and truly enough for that vintage West Indian team as they were known for their deadly fast bowling attack, which could intimidate even the best of the batters. And England were left rattled by that quality bowling attack, as they were bowled out for a score of just 194 runs from their 51 overs. 

Mike Brearley and Sir Geoff Boycott got their side off to a dream start, stitching a partnership of 129 runs for the first wicket. However, the dismissal of Brearley started a batting collapse, as the hosts lost all 10 wickets for just 65 runs. 

Joel Garner was the pick among the bowlers, picking up five wickets in 11 overs, running through almost the entire English batting order. 

It was again a similar sight at the Lord's Cricket Ground as Sir Clive lifted the silverware with his West Indian side, decimating all opponents on their way to the title. 

The Caribbean side was yet to face a single defeat in the two World Cups, which speaks volumes about their sheer dominance. However, that Trophy was snatched from them four years later by Kapil Dev's Devils.