Semi-final 1 — 1979 Cricket World Cup
June 20, 1979 · Old Trafford, Manchester
Result: ENEngland — England won by 9 runs. ENEngland 221/8 (60 overs), NZNew Zealand 212/9 (60 overs). June 20, 1979 · Old Trafford, Manchester.
A genuine thriller: New Zealand needed 14 off the last over, bowled by Ian Botham, and managed only 5, losing by 9 runs -- at the time the smallest winning margin by runs in World Cup history. Derek Randall's direct-hit run-out of John Wright from the deep is repeatedly cited as the pivotal fielding moment. This was England's first appearance in a World Cup final. Full batting cards for both sides beyond the confirmed top scorers, and a Player of the Match, are not confirmed to this round's sourcing standard.
Scorecard
New Zealand won the toss and chose to field.
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| ENEngland (1st innings) | 221/8 (60 overs) |
| NZNew Zealand (2nd innings) | 212/9 (60 overs) |
Leading batters
| Team | Batter | Runs (balls) |
|---|---|---|
| ENEngland | Graham Gooch | 71 (84, 1 four, 3 sixes) |
| ENEngland | Mike Brearley | 53 (115) |
| ENEngland | Derek Randall | 42* (50) |
| NZNew Zealand | John Wright | 69 (137) |
Leading bowlers
| Team | Bowler | Figures |
|---|---|---|
| ENEngland | Mike Hendrick | 3/55 |
Player of the Match
Not confirmed to this site's sourcing standard for this match — omitted rather than guessed at.
Data last verified: 11 August 2026.
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