World Cup 2023: Lowest team scores in ODI World Cup

The 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in India, will crown a new champion. Despite the popularity of T20 cricket, the ODI format remains the most thrilling and entertaining format for cricket fans.

New Zealand, England, India (host), Bangladesh, Pakistan, Australia, Afghanistan, and South Africa secured direct qualification for the tournament based on their performance in the Super League table. Among them, New Zealand topped the charts and has shown exceptional prowess in the ODI format. However, India and Australia are also strong contenders and are considered favorites to lift the trophy.

In this article, we have compiled a list of the lowest scores made by the teams in the previous ODI World Cups.

1) Canada – 36 vs Sri Lanka (2003)

During the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, Canada made a memorable appearance. However, they are also known for their unfortunate record in the history of the ODI World Cup.

In a group match against Sri Lanka at the Boland Bank Park in Paarl, South Africa, Canada faced a formidable challenge. Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat first, posting a massive total of 398 runs for the loss of five wickets. It was an impressive batting display by Sri Lanka.

In response, Canada struggled against the skillful Sri Lankan bowling attack. They were unable to find their footing and endured a batting collapse. Ultimately, Canada was bowled out for a mere 36 runs in just 18.4 overs. This unfortunate outcome remains the lowest team score in the history of the ICC Cricket World Cup.

2) Zimbabwe – 38 vs Sri Lanka (2003)

During the same year, in the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, Zimbabwe faced a daunting challenge against Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka batted first and posted a competitive total of 221 runs for the loss of 7 wickets.

In their pursuit of the target, Zimbabwe encountered immense difficulties against the formidable Sri Lankan bowling attack. They struggled to find their rhythm and were ultimately bowled out for a mere 38 runs in just 15.4 overs.

The standout performer for Sri Lanka was Chaminda Vaas, who produced a remarkable bowling spell. In his 8 overs, Vaas took an astounding 6 wickets, conceding just 25 runs. One of the most memorable moments of the match was Vaas’ opening over, where he achieved a hat-trick by claiming three wickets in consecutive deliveries.

3) Canada – 45 vs England (1979)

It is indeed a lesser-known fact that Canada participated in the 1979 ICC World Cup. During their campaign, Canada faced a formidable challenge when they played against England, and unfortunately, they set a record for the lowest score at that time.

In the match against England, batting first, the English team put up an imposing total of 324 runs for the loss of 4 wickets. In response, Canada struggled to find their footing against the potent English bowling attack. They faced immense difficulties and were ultimately bowled out for a meager 45 runs in 40.3 overs. This disappointing outcome stands as the lowest team score in the history of the ICC World Cup at that time.

4) Namibia – 45 vs Australia (2003)

Namibian cricket has improved over the years and they showed their class in the recently held T20 World Cup. However, ODI has not been their forte it seems. During the 2003 ODI World Cup, while facing Australia, Namibia struggled against the potent Australian bowling attack and was bowled out for just 45 runs in 14 overs.

It is the lowest team score by Namibia in the history of the ICC Cricket World Cup. Glenn McGrath was the star performer for Australia, taking 7 wickets for just 15 runs in his 7 overs, including a memorable spell of 7 for 6.

5) Canada – 45 vs West Indies (1979)

Canada’s struggles in the ICC World Cup are evident as they hold the record for the lowest scores in the tournament on multiple occasions. In the 1979 World Cup, during a match against West Indies, Canada faced a formidable challenge against the strong West Indian bowling attack.

Batting first, Canada encountered immense difficulties and were bowled out for a mere 45 runs in 40.1 overs. The West Indian bowlers, led by Joel Garner, wreaked havoc on the Canadian batting lineup. Garner delivered a standout performance, taking an impressive 5 wickets for just 14 runs in his 8.1 overs.

West Indies, known for their aggressive style of play, wasted no time in chasing down the target. They completed the run chase in just 8.2 overs, displaying their dominance over Canada in the match.