How has India fared against all World Cup opponents

11 editions of the ICC Cricket World Cup have been played so far, and India have won two of them – once in 1983 when Kapil Dev and co. lifted the trophy at Lord’s. And after 28 years, captain MS Dhoni hit a famous six at the Wankhede stadium to give India their second trophy in 2011.

The Indian team has always been among the strongest competitors in the world. In each edition of the World Cup, they have entered as one of the favourites owing to a balanced side. Let’s take a look at how the Men in Blue have performed against each of their World Cup opponents.

Australia’s domination

India and Australia have faced off in 11 encounters so far at the World Cup. Australia have dominated India for the most part, winning 8 of those matches. India have only won 3 of them.

South Africa’s edge

This may come as a surprise to many, but India actually have a poor record against South Africa in World Cups. The Proteas are generally referred to as ‘chokers’ in big tournaments due to their tendency to perish under pressure. But, they have maintained their supremacy against the Men in Blue, winning 3 of the four matches played between both teams.

India’s only win came back in 1975 when South Africa were known as ‘East Africa’. India went on to beat the African side by 10 wickets in that year’s World Cup.

The one-sided affair vs Pakistan

This is a feat that every Indian cricket fan wears on their sleeve with pride. Arch-rivals India and Pakistan have gone head-to-head 6 times in 11 World Cups. Pakistan have never been able to beat India at any World Cup and remain winless to date. India have always enjoyed playing against their neighbouring nation, winning all the matches against them.

Close contest with Sri Lanka

Another neighbouring team that India loves playing against is Sri Lanka. Though, the Islanders aren’t too far behind when it comes to their World Cup record against India. Both teams have clashed 8 times in the tournament, winning 4 matches each.

The English challenge

The England cricket team has always presented a tough challenge to the Indian team, and India have managed to keep them at bay. Of the 7 World Cup matches played, both teams have won 3 each. Only one match ended in a tie at the 2011 edition.

The Bangladesh surprise

One of the biggest upsets in the history of World Cups was India’s excruciating loss to Bangladesh at the 2007 World Cup. Not only did India lose the match, but was also thrown out of the World Cup that year. However, India have won the remaining two matches against Bangladesh, maintaining a narrow lead of 2-1.

The Zimbabwean delight

India and Zimbabwe have faced off 10 times in World Cups, of which India have convincingly won 9 encounters. Zimbabwe have 1 win to their name.

The West Indian calypso

India have maintained their domination over West Indies, winning 4 of the 7 matches played against them. The Windies have done well too, winning the remaining 3.

The Kiwi hurdle

New Zealand have had an impressive record against India at World Cups. Of the 6 matches played between India and New Zealand, the Kiwis have won 4, while India could only manage a couple of victories.

The Clean sweep against Ireland, Netherlands, Kenya & UAE

India have won all their matches against Ireland (2-0), Netherlands (2-0), Kenya (4-0) and the UAE (1-0).