Cricket World Cup 1979

The 1979 World Cup, played in England again, saw one of the turning points of Sri Lankan cricket history as they recorded their first ever win in a World Cup. Having lost to the West Indies and New Zealand, Sri Lanka’s last group game was against India, whose Captain Srinivas Venkataraghavan opted to field first. A 96-run second-wicket partnership between Sunil Wettimuny and Roy Dias set a good platform before Duleep Mendis’ 64 helped Sri Lanka score 238 for five in their 60 overs. In response India were in a decent position on 119 for two but lost their last eight wickets for 72 runs to be bowled out for 191 and lose by 47 runs.