As the anticipation for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India reaches a fever pitch, it’s an opportune time to revisit the history of the tournament.

While cricket fans celebrate the monumental highs and unforgettable moments, it’s equally important to recognize the lowest points in the sport.

In this article, we look into the annals of ODI World Cup history to shine a light on the teams that found themselves at the wrong end of the spectrum, registering the lowest team totals.

Lowest team totals in World Cup history

Canada’s Dreadful Day – 36 vs Sri Lanka (19 Feb 2003):

Score: 36
Overs: 18.4
Run Rate: 1.92
Innings: 1
Opposition: Sri Lanka
Ground: Paarl
Match Date: 19 Feb 2003

In a forgettable encounter during the 2003 World Cup, Canada found themselves on the receiving end of a ruthless Sri Lankan attack. Their dismal total of 36 runs was a stark reminder of the immense gulf in class at the highest level of the sport.

Canada’s Woeful Performance – 45 vs England (13 Jun 1979):

Score: 45
Overs: 40.3
Run Rate: 1.11
Innings: 1
Opposition: England
Ground: Manchester
Match Date: 13 Jun 1979

Canada’s woes in the World Cup continued in 1979 when they faced England. Their batting lineup crumbled, and they managed to scrape together just 45 runs. It was a day that exposed the gap between the minnows and the cricketing giants.

Namibia’s Nightmare – 45 vs Australia (27 Feb 2003):

Score: 45
Overs: 14.0
Run Rate: 3.21
Innings: 2
Opposition: Australia
Ground: Potchefstroom
Match Date: 27 Feb 2003

Namibia’s encounter with the mighty Australians in the 2003 World Cup was a harsh lesson in cricketing disparity. Their meager total of 45 runs underlined the immense challenge faced by the lesser-known cricketing nations on the global stage.

Bangladesh’s Batting Blues – 58 vs West Indies (4 Mar 2011):

Score: 58
Overs: 18.5
Run Rate: 3.07
Innings: 1
Opposition: West Indies
Ground: Mirpur
Match Date: 4 Mar 2011

Bangladesh, despite being a Full Member of the ICC, endured a torrid day in the 2011 World Cup when they faced the West Indies. Their batting lineup crumbled, and they were bowled out for a paltry 58 runs, highlighting the unpredictability of the game.

Scotland’s Struggles – 68 vs West Indies (27 May 1999):

Score: 68
Overs: 31.3
Run Rate: 2.15
Innings: 1
Opposition: West Indies
Ground: Leicester
Match Date: 27 May 1999

Scotland’s encounter with the West Indies in the 1999 World Cup was a tough outing. Their batting faltered, and they managed just 68 runs. It was a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the associate nations when pitted against cricketing powerhouses.

As we prepare for the upcoming World Cup in India, these instances serve as a stark reminder that cricket, like life itself, has its highs and lows. While we celebrate the grandeur and brilliance of the sport, it’s essential to acknowledge the struggles and setbacks that make it all the more riveting. The lowest team totals in World Cup history are not just statistics; they are a demonstration of the resilience and determination required to excel on the world stage.

Also, see;

Top 5 players with most fifties in ODI World Cup history