It’s been 42 years since Indian cricket changed forever, and Kapil Dev still celebrates it like it was yesterday. On the anniversary of India’s historic 1983 World Cup win, the former skipper welcomed some of his teammates home for a quiet, joyful celebration.Bottles of champagne were bubbled, smiles were exchanged, and memories of that unforgettable summer’s evening at Lord’s came flooding back.

Proud looking Kapil was seen pouring some champagne into glasses and behind on the table was the original World Cup trophy shining brightly. The room itself was a story bats from his playing days, framed photos of the 1983 team and that energy only true champions possess. It wasn’t loud, it wasn’t flashy but it was full of heart.

That day June 25, 1983 is etched into the soul of Indian cricket. No one expected India to win. They were underdogs in every sense of the word. But Kapil’s men believed when no one else did. Beating the mighty West Indies in the final wasn't just a win it was a revolution. And 42 years later, that spark still lives on in every cheer, every memory, every toast.

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— Rameshwar Singh (@RSingh6969a) June 26, 2025

 June 25, 1983: The Day Indian Cricket Changed Forever — When Underdogs Became Legends
 

The journey to the final wasn’t easy. India kicked things off with a surprising win against West Indies, only to face setbacks against Australia and West Indies again in the group stage. But they bounced back strong — beating Zimbabwe and Australia to storm into the semis. In the knockout against England, they played fearless cricket and booked their spot in the final.

In the title clash at Lord’s, defending just 183, India pulled off the impossible. They bowled out the West Indies for 140. That win that moment didn’t just bring home a trophy. It made India believe. And as Kapil Dev raised a glass 42 years later, surrounded by the very men who made it happen, it was clear: that victory still means everything.

June 25, 1983—a date when the Asian Giant was awake and the King was dethroned. It was then the biggest upset in cricket when Michael Holding departed and the mighty West Indies halted for 140 against India's 183—India won the World Cup—1983 World Cup. 

Before the final, it was like a repeat telecast of the first two World Cups when the West Indies proved their dominance and won the highest trophy of cricket back-to-back. Under Clive Lloyd's leadership, the Caribbeans, like before, cruised into the final match of '83. When India somehow managed the other spot in the final, on pen and paper the match was like between David and Goliath. 

Batting first, team India managed to get only 183 on the scoreboard in 60 overs. The fierce bowling attack of the West Indies, with Andy Roberts, Malcolm Marshall, Michael Holding, and Joel Garner, simply demolished the Indian batting line-up. The house-full Lord's Cricket Ground was ready to witness another dominating performance by the West Indies in the title-decider contest.

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Kapil Dev's catch and the wicket of Sir Vivian Richards 

Sir Viv Richards, considered as the most dangerous and hard-hitting batsman, came to bat in the crease at number three and got off to a perfect ignition. He was toying with India's medium-pace bowling lineup until Madan Lal delivered a slower one when West Indies was on 57. Richards mistimed the shot, and Captain Kapil Dev, on mid-on, took an iconic catch under pressure, keeping his head cool. With 7 boundaries and a 117.85 strike rate, Viv departed for 33. 

The defending champion still had a fair amount of chances to win the match, and by then, India got the extra self-belief they needed to pull out the greatest upset that no one saw coming. Clive Lloyd, Larry Gomes, Faoud Bacchus, Jeff Dujon... all came and went. The tiny target of 183 is registered in the history book. Mohinder Amarnath was selected for the man of the match award for his 3-wicket spell and 26 runs with the bat. 

Whenever the historic triumph of the 1983 Cricket World Cup is evoked or recollected, it is often Kapil Devi’s image holding the trophy that immediately springs to mind. Regrettably, the remarkable contributions of other Indian cricketers in that victorious campaign tend to be overshadowed. Among them, the unsung hero of the tournament was Mohinder Amarnath. His exceptional all-round performances with both bat and ball played a pivotal role in India’s success. Amarnath’s invaluable contributions during crucial moments, especially in the semi-final and final matches, ensured victory for the Indian team. His ability to excel under pressure and his unwavering determination make him an integral part of the 1983 World Cup-winning squad, deserving of much more recognition and appreciation.

Very few people remember the fact that Mohinder Amarnath holds the distinction of being the first cricketer to be named the Man of the Match in both a semi-final and final of the 1983 Cricket World Cup. His outstanding performances in the 1983 tournament secured him this prestigious recognition, cementing his status as a legendary player in cricket history. In the semi-final of World Cup 1983 he took 2 wickets as well as scored 46 runs. Similarly, his performance in the final was also commendable as he smashed 26 runs and also bagged 3 wickets.

Mohinder Amarnath deserves credit for his invaluable contribution which led India to win the 1983 World Cup. It was not just another trophy for the Indian side. This was a landmark event that inspired the forthcoming generations to play cricket in India.

Here are some lesser-known facts about Mohinder Amarnath with respect to the 1983 World Cup

• Amarnath’s performance was truly outstanding as he not only contributed with eight wickets but also scored 237 runs at an average of 29.62 throughout the tournament. This remarkable contribution of Amarnath played a crucial role in India’s triumph, highlighting his exceptional abilities both as a bowler and a batsman. His impressive statistics and invaluable contributions underline the significance of his role in securing the historic victory for the Indian team
• During the 1983 World Cup semi-final against England, Amarnath delivered a breathtaking performance, leading India to a convincing six-wicket victory. He showcased his skills by taking two wickets and later played a crucial innings of 46 runs, earning him the Man of the Match award.
• In the World Cup final, India defeated the defending champions West Indies to secure the title. Amarnath’s exceptional all-round performance earned him the Man of the Match award. He contributed with 26 runs and three wickets, playing a vital role in India’s 43-run victory.