The Evolution of the Cricket World Cup Trophy
The battle among the world’s top 10 cricket teams for the coveted Cricket World Cup 2023 trophy is set to kick off on October 5. Over the next month and a half, players from 10 nations will chase the dream of securing this prestigious prize in international cricket. Unlike its 20-over counterpart, this tournament only occurs once every four years, adding to its grandeur. On November 19, the world will witness the triumph of one team and the presentation of the ODI trophy, which itself has an intriguing history.
Has the World Cup Trophy Always Been the Same?
The early editions of the 50-over World Cup were all hosted by England, beginning in 1975. In its initial years, it was known as the Prudential Cup, named after its primary sponsor, an insurance company.
Prudential World Cup: 1975, 1979, and 1983
The first World Cup trophy had a simple design reminiscent of the Wimbledon men’s championship medal. This trophy, named the Prudential Cup after the tournament’s sponsor, Prudential Insurance, was clinched by the first three World Cup champions, all of whom competed in the UK. Today, this historic trophy is displayed at the Lord’s Cricket Museum.
Reliance World Cup: 1987
In 1987, the tournament ventured beyond England and made its way to the cricket-loving heart of the subcontinent. Reliance Industries sponsored the event. Australia, the winners, was awarded a trophy that was gold-plated and studded with diamonds. The estimated cost of this magnificent trophy at the time was around 600,000 Indian rupees.
Benson & Hedges World Cup: 1992
Considered one of the most exquisite World Cup trophies ever created, this Waterford crystal trophy featured a beautiful globe atop a hardwood base, adorned with the logos of the nine participating teams. Reports suggest that the trophy cost approximately £8,000. Today, it finds its home at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.
Wills World Cup: 1996
The tournament returned to the subcontinent, hosted by three nations: India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka emerged as the victors, securing the most elaborate World Cup trophy to date. This ornate trophy was won after a convincing victory over Australia in the final match held in Lahore.
ICC World Cup: 1999–Present
The International Cricket Council (ICC) decided to introduce a single trophy for all future winners. The new design features a golden globe supported by three silver columns representing a cricket ball and three stumps. The names of past winners are inscribed on the trophy’s base. The ICC retains the original trophy created in 1999, which was first claimed by Australia. The winning team is awarded a replica.
The current ICC World Cup trophy stands at 60 cm in height, weighing 11 kg. It is constructed from a combination of silver and gold, with the precious metals alone estimated to be worth approximately $30,000. This trophy represents the pinnacle of achievement in one-day international cricket and continues to inspire cricketing greatness worldwide.
