Sri Lanka World Cup 1996: How Did Sri Lanka Win Their First ICC World Cup?

Sri Lanka has won the ODI World Cup only once, and it was way back in 1996. This was a massive shocker for cricket enthusiasts around the world, as not many had fancied them to go the distance. They were the underdogs heading into the competition, but they planned and executed commendably to lift the coveted title.

As many as 12 teams competed in the tournament. Group A comprised Sri Lanka, Australia, India, Zimbabwe, the West Indies, and Kenya. Meanwhile, South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand, England, the United Arab Emirates, and the Netherlands were clubbed in Group B.

Sri Lanka emerged victorious in all five of their group games. The Island Nation got a walkover against Australia due to security concerns following a bombing in Colombo.

England faced a rampant Sri Lankan side in the first quarterfinal in Faisalabad. The Three Lions posted 235/8 after batting first. In reply, Sri Lanka romped home with 56 balls and five wickets to spare. Sanath Jayasuriya top-scored with a whirlwind 82 off 44 balls, making the job of his fellow batters easier.

Sri Lanka’s next encounter was against India at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. It remains the only World Cup knockout fixture to be won by a team by default rather than complete on the field. After Sri Lanka’s talismanic openers were dismissed cheaply, the legendary Aravindra de Silva scored 66 off 47 balls, helping his team to a competitive total of 251/8.

India had a fantastic start in the game as they reached 98/1 in no time. Sachin Tendulkar looked in ominous touch, scoring a quickfire 65. However, Jayasuriya got him stumped. Tendulkar’s wicket brought about a massive collapse on India ‘s part, as they lost their last seven wickets for just 22 runs.

Chaos ensued after India slumped to 120/8 in the 35th over. The Kolkata crowd, packed to the rafters, began throwing plastic bottles and fruit into the field. Match Referee Clive Lloyd checked whether the tension would ease during a 20-minute break. The image of a crying Vinod Kamli walking off the field remains the defining visual of that night. Eventually, Lloyd awarded the match to Sri Lanka.

In the final, Sri Lanka got the better of mighty Australia to surprise fans. Sri Lanka chased down a 242-run target in 46.2 overs, with Aravindra de Silva scoring a breathtaking century. Skipper Ranatunga remained unbeaten on 47 off 37 deliveries to take his team home.

Sri Lanka would thank Ranatunga and Dav Wahtmore for inspiring the team. The decision to promote Jayasuriya and Kaluwitharana was a masterstroke. They took the attack to the pacers and spinners and gave Sri Lanka the kind of starts from where the middle-order batters could take over. This triumph changed the cricketing landscape in Sri Lankan cricket for good.

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.

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