Many bowlers have spun, swung, and timed their way into history during the ICC World Cup’s 12 editions. Their performances aided their team’s victory and gave them some individual glory alongside the greats on statistical records. Some of the finest bowlers have wholly demolished the opposing batting order. This article will examine the top five most significant bowling spells in the ICC Cricket World Cup history.

Glenn McGrath (Australia) 7/15 vs Namibia: 2003 WC

Glenn McGrath, Australia’s former fast bowler, owns the World Cup record for most runs scored and is the tournament’s all-time leading wicket-taker.

Despite bowling against an associate team like Namibia, the Australian legend bowled seven consecutive overs from the same end during this hazardous new ball period. When Australia batted first and reached 301 for 6, McGrath challenged Namibia’s batting order with off-stump in- and out-swingers. Adam Gilchrist caught four of McGrath‘s deliveries in this game, making it one of the best keeper-bowler partnerships for dismissals.

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Andy Bichel (Australia) 7/20 vs England: 2003 WC

During the 2003 ICC World Cup, this span also occurred in a noteworthy match. Five of the seven wickets belonged to a previous, current, or incoming captain. Furthermore, Australia won by two wickets with two balls remaining despite a close game, while Bichel captured seven of England’s eight wickets that day.

England was cruising at 66 for no loss in 9.4 overs when Bichel turned the contest in their favour. England was reduced to 87 for five as Bichel led Australia’s comeback, and Australia triumphed. He re-launched his assault to give Australia the lead, breaking a 90-run sixth-wicket partnership between Andrew Flintoff and Alec Stewart.

Tim Southee (New Zealand) 7/33 vs England: 2015 WC

New Zealand advanced to the final game of the 2015 ICC World Cup by winning all of its games. Its greatest bowling numbers in the cricket ODI World Cup were a crucial component in its accomplishment in reaching the final. After winning the toss, England chose to bat first on a favorable batting surface.

Southee thwarted every scheme devised by England. With his out-swingers, he instantly caused problems for the English batters. With such impeccable deliveries, he bowled four English batters, including two swinging Yorkers.

England were bowled for 123 against New Zealand thanks to Southee’s seven-wicket haul.

Winston Davis (West Indies) 7/51 vs Australia: 1983 WC

The West Indies squad headed by Clive Lloyd throughout the 1970s and 1980s is recognized as the best in the world. Andy Roberts, Michael Holding, and Malcolm Marshall formed a formidable bowling attack. Nonetheless, Winston Davis, a lesser-known back-up bowler, posted the greatest bowling numbers in the ODI World Cup. West Indies had scored 252 runs while batting first.

 He had only played one previous ODI in his career, but by knocking out Hughes, he helped the West Indies turn things around with an impeccable bowling figure 7/51 in his 10.3 overs quota. 

Gary Gilmour (Australia) 6/14 vs England: 1975 WC

This five-wicket haul in the inaugural World Cup quarterfinal is also the tournament’s most economical. That day, Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thompson were the England hitters’ targets, but Gary Gilmour stole the show. By bowling six maiden overs out of the 12-over share.

The cool air at Headingley aided left-arm swing bowler Gilmour, who bowled 12 straight overs and had stats of 6 for 10 in nine overs at one stage. Australia learned it was 39 for six after chasing after England had been knocked out for 93. When Gilmour joined the game, the left-hander gave Australia a decisive unbeaten 28. This was hailed as the World Cup’s most extraordinary all-round performance.