It was Botham's day...
In a crucial 1992 World cup encounter between Australia and England, host won the toss and elected to bat first at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The cricketing rivalry between Australia and England has always resulted in thrilling matches, but this match was a one sided affair
In a crucial 1992 World cup encounter between Australia and England, host won the toss and elected to bat first at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The cricketing rivalry between Australia and England has always resulted in thrilling matches, but this match was a one sided affair for England as Australian team lost the battle to Ian Botham's allround performance.
The two teams last met in world cup in 1987 World Cup final where Australia beat England to claim their maiden title.
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At MCG on 5th March 1992, infront of the home crowd Australia were bowled out for just 171 in 49 overs. At one point of time, Australia were looking good for 145/4 with Border and Steve Waugh at the crease. Botham bowled a magical spell in which he had claimed four wickets from 7 balls without conceding a single run. First to go was Australian skipper Allan Border who was bowled for 16, followed by Ian Healey (who drove to Fairbrother at mid-wicket), Taylor (trapped LBW) and McDermotth (Fell to brilliant catch by Defreitas). From 145/4, Australia were reduced to 155/8. Australian tail was able to add just 16 runs and were all out for 171 in 49 overs. Botham finished with his career-best ODI figures of 4 for 31 from 10 overs.
Botham's show continued in the second innings as well when he was sent as a pinch hitter to open the batting along with England Captain Graham Gooch. The duo added 107 for the first wicket before Botham fell for quick 53 runs. It was Botham's day. England won the match by 9 wickets and Botham won the man of the match award.
