On This Day: A quite literal game-changing moment in ODI history

Mike Brearley’s strategic move at a crucial moment during the Benson & Hedges World Series Cup in 1979 changed the game forever.

Vivian Richards of the West Indies and Geoff Boycott of England share a light moment after the Benson and Hedges World Series Cup One Day Inernational (ODI) triangular series match in 1979. | Photo Credit:  THE HINDU ARCHIVES

In a crucial moment during the second ODI of the Benson & Hedges World Series Cup in 1979, the West Indies needed three runs to win off the last ball. England captain Mike Brearley positioned all his fielders on the boundary ropes, even instructing wicketkeeper David Bairstow (Jonny Bairstow’s father) to stand back at the ropes.

This strategic move was well within the rules, but it stirred discontent among the West Indies team and the SCG crowd. Interestingly, it was after this incident that the ICC introduced field restrictions in ODI cricket, eight years after the format’s inception.

Ultimately, the last ball was not significant, as Sir Ian Botham clean bowled the number 11 batsman, Colin Croft.