OTD: India clinched the Coca-Cola Champions Trophy final in 1998

The Coca-Cola Champions Trophy was a triangular ODI cricket tournament held in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, from November 6 to 13, 1999. India, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe were the three teams competing for the silverware.

India and Zimbabwe made it to the final after winning three games each in the league phase. Sri Lanka were knocked out after losing all four of their matches. 

In the final, Mohammad Azharuddin won the toss and elected to bowl first. The Indian bowlers wreaked havoc and had Zimbabwe on the mat at 81/6. However, Paul Strang (46) and Eddo Brandes (33) chipped in with gritty contributions down the order to help the Chevrons get to 196/9 in their 50 overs. Javagal Srinath was the pick of the bowlers, bagging a three-for. On the other hand, Anil Kumble also bowled well for his two-wicket haul in 10 overs.

In reply, India made light work of the target, chasing it down in just 30 overs with 10 wickets to spare. The iconic opening duo of Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly made the Zimbabwe bowlers look pedestrian. While Ganguly made 63 off 90 balls, Tendulkar smashed 124 off just 92 deliveries.

Tendulkar, who won the Player of the Match award, hit 12 fours and six sixes during his memorable knock. He finished unbeaten with a staggering strike rate of 134.78. In the first innings, the Mumbai cricketer had picked up the wicket of Brandes. Tendulkar also finished with the most runs in the series – 274. The next best tally in the tournament came from Andy Flower, who made 161.

This turns out to be one of the most epic tri-series that the Men in Blue have played over the years. Tendulkar’s consistency with the bat stood out during the tournament.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!