Published on: Jun 16, 2023 5:14 pm IST|Updated on: Jun 16, 2023 5:14 pm IST
In a historic cricket showdown, Sri Lanka achieved a magnificent victory over Australia, securing their first-ever World Cup title. Under the astute leadership of Arjuna Ranatunga, the Sri Lankan team displayed remarkable skills to restrict Mark Taylor’s Australian squad to a total of 241 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their allocated 50 overs.
Australia innings
Sri Lanka innings
Extras: 11 (b 1, lb 4, nb 1, w 5) Total: 245/3 in 46.2 overs Run rate: 5.28
Leading the Australian charge, captain Mark Taylor emerged as the top scorer with a resilient knock of 74 runs in the 1996 World Cup final scorecard. Alongside him, Ricky Ponting contributed a valuable 45 runs, while Michael Bevan remained unbeaten on 36 runs. Sri Lankan all-rounder Aravinda de Silva showcased his prowess by claiming three wickets, playing a crucial role in limiting the Australian innings.
Chasing the target, de Silva continued his heroics with the bat as he single-handedly propelled Sri Lanka towards victory. His unbeaten century of 107 runs left an indelible mark on the 1996 World Cup final scorecard. Despite a rocky start, with openers Sanath Jayasuriya and Romesh Kaluwitharana departing early, de Silva found a formidable partner in Asanka Gurusinha. Together, they weathered the storm and steered Sri Lanka away from a precarious situation when the team was reduced to 23 runs for the loss of 2 wickets.
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Gurusinha contributed a well-fought 65 runs, displaying immense determination and skill. The duo’s partnership breathed life into the Sri Lankan chase, providing a solid foundation for the team’s triumph. Captain Arjuna Ranatunga proved his mettle by remaining unbeaten on 47 runs, further fortifying the Sri Lankan innings. Ranatunga’s crucial partnership of 97 runs with de Silva played a pivotal role in propelling the team to victory in the 47th over, ultimately securing the coveted World Cup title.
Reflecting on the semi-final matches, the road to the final was not an easy one for both teams. In the first semi-final encounter between Sri Lanka and India, the match was marred by fan trouble following India’s dismal batting performance. With India struggling at a mere 120 runs for the loss of 8 wickets while chasing a target of 252, the match was interrupted due to the unruly behavior of certain spectators. Consequently, Sri Lanka emerged victorious based on their superior performance until that point.
In the other semi-final clash, Australia faced off against the West Indies in a thrilling encounter. The match proved to be a nail-biting contest, with Australia managing to secure a narrow victory by a margin of five runs. Both teams displayed exceptional cricketing skills, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the last ball was bowled.
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With Sri Lanka’s remarkable triumph over Australia in the final and their journey through the semi-finals filled with twists and turns, this World Cup will forever be etched in cricketing history. The extraordinary performances by key players such as Aravinda de Silva, Arjuna Ranatunga, Mark Taylor, and others will be remembered for years to come, exemplifying the true spirit of the sport and the indomitable nature of cricketing legends.
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