First World Cup Outside England

The first Cricket World Cup held outside England marked a pivotal moment in the history of the tournament. India and Pakistan jointly hosted this edition, which was a significant shift from the traditional venue of England. This tournament introduced a new format, reducing the number of overs per innings from 60 to 50. This change was implemented to accommodate the shorter daylight hours typical of the Indian subcontinent, making matches more manageable and viewer-friendly. The decision to host the World Cup in India and Pakistan not only expanded the geographical reach of the tournament but also highlighted the growing popularity of cricket in these nations. The event attracted large crowds and significant media attention, showcasing the fervor and passion for cricket in the region. Australia emerged victorious in the tournament, defeating England by a narrow margin of 7 runs in the final, further solidifying the competitive nature of the World Cup. This edition set a precedent for future tournaments, establishing a model that would be followed in subsequent years, with various countries co-hosting the event and adapting the format to suit local conditions.