5 Direct hits that have changed games in World Cups

#4 Mohammad Kaif's direct hit to get Nick Knight out

India vs England, ICC World Cup 2003

India 250-9 (50.0) beat England 168 all out (45.3)

Mohammad Kaif, along with Yuvraj Singh, brought about a revolution in Indian fielding standards in the early 2000s.

In a group-stage encounter against England, India had put up a competitive total of 250 but it was important to pick up early wickets as England batted deep. It was Kaif who provided the first breakthrough India needed.

Nick Knight, the England opener, tried getting a quick single having hit the ball towards short mid-off but failed to make it on time as Kaif breezed towards the ball, dived, picked it up and hit the stump with an underarm throw -- all in one motion.

#5 Chris Harris's direct hit to get Aravinda de Silva out

New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, ICC World Cup 1992

Sri Lanka 206-9 (50.0) lost to New Zealand 210-4 (48.2)

One of the finest all-rounders New Zealand has ever produced, Chris Harris was a sharp-witted bowler, a master finisher and a razor-sharp fielder.

Playing a crucial match against strong opposition -- Sri Lanka, the Kiwis had to bring out their best game, which they did, eventually winning by 6 wickets. But, at one point, Lanka was cruising at 120-2 when Chris Harris's expeditious work in the short covers region and a direct hit led to the dismissal of skipper Aravinda de Silva to turn the game in favour of New Zealand.

Here's Harris in action for the run-out, starting at 6.30: