How the host nation fared in each ODI World Cup

#10 England, 1979

The 2nd edition of the World Cup in 1979 saw the hosts England dominate the group stage yet again. Clubbed with Pakistan, Australia and Canada in Group A, the hosts beat all three to go into the semi-final against New Zealand as the strongest team of the tournament.

The semi-final took place at Old Trafford and after England had scored 221, it looked like New Zealand were going to chase it down. However, Geoffrey Boycott's off-spin turned the tide fo the hosts as they eked out a 9 run win and found themselves in the final against the West Indies.

The final at Lord's, however, turned out to be a complete anti-climax as Viv Richards blasted 138 and Collis King hit a 66 balls 86 to put up 286. England's captain and opener Mike Brearley (130 balls for his 64) and Geoffrey Boycott (105 balls played for 57) were too defensive and could not score quickly enough. When England did try to force the issue, they collapsed in spectacular fashion from 183 for 2 to 191 all out as Joel Garner ran riot.