5 most thrilling games in World Cup history

#1 Second Semi-final, 1999 World Cup

The most-thrilling finish, not just in World Cups but arguably, in all of ODI cricket

It was the English summer of 1999. After 3 editions outside, the World Cup had returned to England, the home of Cricket. Pakistan had made it to the finals and on June 17, 1999, Edgbaston, Birmingham was ready to see a more even-sided clash than what transpired at Old Trafford the previous day.

South Africa won the toss and elected to field first. The decision turned in their favour as Australia were bowled out in the 50th over with just 213 on the board. There were 5 batsmen who scored ducks whereas 3 scored 20 or less.

South Africa were eyeing their chance to reach the final for the first time. But their start didn't go very well. 4 wickets collapsed with the team total at 61. But then Jacques Kallis and Jonty Rhodes revived the innings and took the team to 145 in 40.2 overs.

In the final 2 overs, 18 runs were required from 12 deliveries with 3 wickets in hand. Glenn McGrath took 2 wickets, created a half-chance for the only remaining wicket, and gave away 9 runs in the 49th over.

The final over was with Damien Fleming. He had successfully pulled off a similar feat in the 1996 World Cup semifinal against West Indies. 9 were required off the final 6 and Lance Klusener was on strike. The first ball was hit for a four through the covers. The next ball again went for a boundary. Scores were tied and South Africa needed just 1 run off 4 deliveries to enter the final.

All 9 fielders were within the 30-yard saving the single. The 3rd ball of the over was a dot. As the 4th ball was delivered, both Allan Donald and Lance Klusener found themselves on the same end. Allan Donald was run out and Australia advanced to yet another World Cup final (since they finished higher in the super 6 points table), and South Africa 'choked' once again.