Cricket World Cup History: The greatest XI that never won the World cup

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Sangakkara and AB de Villiers

The ultimate goal of any cricketer who represents their country at the highest level is to get their hands on the coveted ICC World Cup trophy for at least once in their career. In 1975 when the World Cup first began, the aura was still around test cricket and no one was sure whether the tournament will become a success. 11 editions and 44 years later, the 50 over World Cup has undoubtedly become the most popular and fiercely contested competition in cricket.

In those 44 years, this game has given birth to many legendary players who have stunned the fans with their awe-inspiring performances at the World Cup. In spite of all their effort, some great cricketers have been unable to lift the World Cup in their career.

Here is a team consisting of the eleven best players to have never won a World Cup:

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#1 Openers: Sourav Ganguly (C) and Tillakaratne Dilshan

Ganguly and Dilshan

India’s most prolific opener Sourav Ganguly almost won a World Cup in 2003 when India finished runners-up after a humiliating defeat to Australia in the final of the 2003 World Cup. He was also selfless in his decision making as he conceded his opening spot to Virender Sehwag keeping the needs of the team in mind. He scored 3 centuries in the 2003 edition and finished as the 2nd highest run scorer behind Sachin Tendulkar.

Innings: 21 Runs: 1006 Average: 55.88 Strike Rate: 77.50

The swashbuckling opener from Sri Lanka was at the peak of his powers during the 2011 World Cup and finished as the highest run scorer with 500 runs at an average of 62.50. Tillakaratne Dilshan scored centuries against Zimbabwe and England in that World Cup and was instrumental in getting his team off to a blistering start. He continued his fine form in the 2015 World Cup and scored 395 runs at an average of 65.83.

Innings : 25 Runs : 1112 Average : 52.95 Strike rate : 92.97

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