Last Updated: Thursday, 15 February 2007, 09:44 GMT
How the World Cup evolved - 1979
Winners: West Indies beat England by 92 runs
Kerry Packer's World Series had dramatically changed the cricketing landscape but a truce was agreed before the World Cup - players signed to the rival could take part.
Australia were not at full strength and Canada replaced East Africa but the same format remained. Hosts England made the final against a backdrop of lower crowds and indifferent weather.
West Indies piled on 286-9 in their 60 overs, with Viv Richards hitting 138. England's Mike Brearley and Geoff Boycott put on 127 in reply for the first wicket but were skittled for 194, Joel Garner claiming 5-38.