How England Won Their First World Cup in 2019 – A Story of a Tied Final

The 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup final match has seen so much drama in a tie-fitting super over that is never seen in another World Cup. Not only the super over drama the thriller even extended to another level when England was given an extra controversial boundary which actually defined the victor of that World Cup. Both England and New Zealand were trophyless until that final match. Eventually, England bagged their 1st trophy after 44 years of the WC competition. Let’s focus on now how they do it on their way through the final.

The match began with New Zealand setting a target of 241 for England to chase. The Kiwis had shown tremendous resilience throughout the tournament, putting up similar scores and defending them with unwavering determination. England, in their quest for glory, found themselves in a precarious position at 86 for 4. It was at this moment that the heroes of the day, Jos Buttler and Ben Stokes, walked out to the crease. Their partnership of 110 runs breathed life into England’s hopes, and suddenly, the chase seemed attainable.

Buttler and Stokes faced the daunting task of scoring 15 runs from the final over bowled by Trent Boult. The pressure was immense, not just because of the runs required, but also because of the weight of history that hung heavily on their shoulders. The first two balls of the over were dot balls, increasing the tension in the air. Then, Stokes unleashed his power and struck a sensational six, sending the ball soaring into the midwicket crowd.

However, fate took an unexpected turn. As Stokes attempted a second run, a throw from Martin Guptill deflected off his bat, racing to the boundary for an additional four runs. Stokes immediately apologized, but the damage was done. England needed three runs from two balls, and Boult managed to run out the non-striker on both deliveries, resulting in a tied match.

The cricketing gods had one more twist in store, as the tied final led to a Super Over, a scenario never seen before in World Cup history. In the Super Over, England scored 15 runs, matching New Zealand’s total. But it was England who emerged victorious on the boundary count, securing their first-ever World Cup triumph.

This historic victory was a testament to the resilience, determination, and fighting spirit of both teams. New Zealand, led by the calm and composed Kane Williamson, displayed outstanding fielding and bowling throughout the tournament. Their consistency and sportsmanship deserved a better fate, but sometimes, fate has its own plans.

As the trophy was lifted and the champagne flowed, England had their moment of glory. They had not just won a cricket match; they had conquered decades of longing and heartbreak. The engravers may have had to wait, but for England, the wait was worth it. A new name was etched onto the cup, and it was done in the most dramatic and unforgettable fashion imaginable.