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When Sunil Gavaskar's Painful 36* Off 174 Made Him Famous For Wrong Reasons In 1975 WC

Akshita Patel

Sunil Gavaskar's painful memory in 1975 World Cup [Source: Getty]Sunil Gavaskar's painful memory in 1975 World Cup [Source: Getty]

On June 7, 1975, India played their first-ever World Cup match, and so did the rest of the cricketing world. The opening game was held between India and England at Lord’s Cricket Ground, but Sunil Gavaskar’s painfully slow knock gave rise to a bizarre moment.

England batted first and took advantage of the situation. Dennis Amiss played a magnificent 137, and with contributions from Keith Fletcher and Chris Old, England racked up a record-breaking 334/4 in 60 overs. It was the record score in ODIs up to that time.

India’s chase, however, was painfully slow, especially due to one man, Sunil Gavaskar.

Sunil Gavaskar Criticised For Painful Knock In Inaugural World Cup Edition 

The legendary opener, known for his solid technique in Tests, stayed at the crease throughout the innings. But instead of attacking, he defended nearly every ball. 

Sunil Gavaskar finished on 36 not out off 174 balls, hitting only one four, at a strike rate of a mere 20.68. India could muster only 132/3 and lost the game by 202 runs.

Fans were appalled. Many even rushed onto the field demanding that Gavaskar play more aggressively. He was severely taken to task by the media, fans, and even team management. The former cricketer later admitted it was one of the worst innings of his career and that he felt mentally stuck. 

Despite that infamous knock, Sunil Gavaskar went on to score over 3000 runs in ODIs, including one century. Gavaskar went on to amass more than 3000 runs in ODIs, with one century. He is still a legend of the game, but his 36* off 174 balls in the 1975 World Cup opening game remains an experience fans will never forget, albeit for all the wrong reasons.