The Cricket World Cup has witnessed some monumental individual performances over the years. As the stage sets for top-tier cricketing nations to compete for the ultimate glory, it has often been the stage where legends shine the brightest. Here, we recount the top 10 highest individual scores in World Cup matches, celebrating the sheer genius of these batsmen.

Martin Guptill – 237 (New Zealand)

The 2015 World Cup saw Martin Guptill of New Zealand etching his name in history. Playing against West Indies in Wellington, Guptill’s 237 remains a masterclass of clean hitting and sublime timing. His monumental innings is currently the highest individual score in World Cup history, propelling New Zealand to a commanding total of 393, and setting a daunting challenge for the West Indies.

Chris Gayle – 215 (West Indies)

In the same 2015 edition, Chris Gayle from the West Indies crafted a scintillating double century against Zimbabwe. With his explosive style, Gayle's 215 not only showcased why he's considered one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world but also marked him as the first non-Indian to score a double century. He also set a record partnership of 372 runs with Marlon Samuels during this innings.

Gary Kirsten – 188 (South Africa)

Back in the 1996 World Cup, Gary Kirsten produced a splendid 188 against the UAE. Representing South Africa, Kirsten's calculated aggression and precision not only guided his team to an imposing total but also set the highest World Cup score at the time. A record that remained unbroken for nearly two decades, it solidified South Africa's victory by a significant margin.

Sourav Ganguly – 183 (India)

The charismatic Indian captain, Sourav Ganguly, played a breathtaking knock of 183 against Sri Lanka in the 1999 World Cup. His innings, laden with boundaries, remain the highest by an Indian in World Cup history. Alongside Rahul Dravid, he crafted a 318-run partnership, setting a then-world record for any wicket in One Day Internationals.

Vivian Richards – 181 (West Indies)

Sir Vivian Richards, in the 1987 World Cup, played an innings of pure class against Sri Lanka, scoring 181. His majestic performance, which included a series of fours and sixes, is a testament to his legendary status and ensured the West Indies set a then-record World Cup total.

Kapil Dev – 175 (India)

In the pivotal 1983 World Cup match, Kapil Dev led India's recovery from a precarious 17/5, scoring an unbeaten 175 against Zimbabwe. Often cited as the turning point for Indian cricket on the world stage, his innings ensured India had a competitive total to defend.

David Gower – 158 (England)

David Gower's stylish 158 in the 1983 edition against New Zealand showcased his classic stroke play. Representing England, Gower's innings, which epitomized the elegance of orthodox cricketing shots, stood out as one of the highlights in a World Cup dominated by stalwarts.

AB de Villiers – 162 (South Africa)

The dynamic AB de Villiers blazed his way to 162 against West Indies in the 2015 World Cup. His swashbuckling style and breathtaking array of shots left fans and experts in awe, especially as he reached his century in just 52 balls, making it the second-fastest World Cup century at the time. His performance was key in South Africa posting a total of 408/5.

Tillakaratne Dilshan – 161 (Sri Lanka)

In the 2015 edition, Tillakaratne Dilshan from Sri Lanka exhibited brilliance with his unbeaten 161 against Bangladesh. His knock, marked by class and technique, was central in ensuring Sri Lanka reached a commendable total, setting the stage for a comprehensive victory.

Adam Gilchrist – 149 (Australia)

The 2007 World Cup final was illuminated by Australian wicketkeeper, Adam Gilchrist, who unleashed a magnificent 149 against Sri Lanka. Using a squash ball inside his glove for better grip, Gilchrist's match-winning innings were not only the fastest century in a World Cup final at that time but also pivotal in securing Australia's trophy in style.

Conclusion

The World Cup has been the backdrop for many a cricketing folklore. These individual masterpieces not only etched the players into the annals of cricket history but also elevated the stature of the World Cup. As fans, we are fortunate to witness such transcendent talents showcasing their prowess on the grandest stage of them all.