NEW DELHI: On this day, March 10, 1985, Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary Indian batsman and captain, lifted the trophy as India emerged victorious in the final of the World Championship of Cricket. Played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, the match saw India dominate their arch-rivals Pakistan, capping off an extraordinary campaign where they defeated every opponent with ease.
Fast forward 40 years and Sunil Gavaskar once again captured the hearts of cricket fans worldwide. During Indiaโs ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory celebrations, Gavaskar broke into a joyful dance as the team lifted the trophy. At 75 years old, his exuberant moves went viral on social media, with fans praising his energy and passion for the game. This heartwarming moment highlighted Gavaskarโs enduring love for Indian cricket and his ability to connect with fans across generations.
The Final: India vs Pakistan
Indiaโs commanding performance began with their disciplined bowling effort. The pacers, led by Kapil Dev and Roger Binny, exploited the conditions beautifully, keeping the Pakistani batters under pressure. The spin duo of Ravi Shastri and Laxman Sivaramakrishnan strangled the middle order, ensuring Pakistan was restricted to a modest total of 176 runs in their 50 overs. Shastri, in particular, was exceptional, showcasing his all-round brilliance that earned him the prestigious Player of the Series award.
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In response, Indiaโs batting line-up, brimming with confidence and depth, executed the chase with composure. Openers Ravi Shastri and Kris Srikkanth provided a solid start, with the flamboyant Srikkanth attacking the bowlers and scoring a quickfire 67. Mohammad Azharuddin and Dilip Vengsarkar anchored the middle overs, playing sensible cricket to ensure no hiccups in the pursuit.
Sunil Gavaskarโs Legacy
Sunil Gavaskarโs role in this triumph went beyond his calm contributions with the bat. As a captain, his astute leadership and tactical acumen allowed India to perform consistently throughout the tournament. His ability to inspire and bring out the best in his team cemented his status as one of the greatest Indian cricketers. Known for his textbook technique and steely determination, Gavaskar retired with an illustrious career, amassing over 10,000 runs in Test cricket and leaving an indelible mark on the game.
A Team for the Ages
The 1985 World Championship of Cricket team was one of the finest ODI sides India has ever fielded. With a batting line-up that extended till No. 10, four genuine all-rounders, and a strong fielding unit, this squad was a perfect blend of skill, versatility, and teamwork. Players like Kapil Dev, Roger Binny, and Madan Lal provided crucial breakthroughs with the ball, while the likes of Azharuddin, Shastri, and Srikkanth lit up the tournament with their batting heroics. Sadanand Vishwanathโs sharp wicketkeeping and lively presence added to the teamโs balance.
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A Lasting Legacy
The victory in the World Championship of Cricket is remembered as a golden chapter in Indian cricket history. It was a testament to the teamโs all-round excellence, epitomized by Sunil Gavaskarโs leadership and Ravi Shastriโs all-round brilliance.
On this day, 40 years after Gavaskar celebrated Indiaโs latest ICC triumph, the memories of 1985โs remarkable success resonated, serving as a timeless inspiration for Indian cricket and its fans. His dance in 2025 was a fitting tribute to the joy and passion that cricket continues to bring to millions.
