Sri Lanka’s 1996 ICC Cricket World Cup victory remains one of the sport’s greatest underdog stories. Arjuna Ranatunga’s tactical brilliance and Aravinda de Silva’s all-round performance—scoring 107* and taking three wickets—helped Sri Lanka chase down Australia’s 241. The win transformed Sri Lanka into a global cricketing powerhouse.
The final at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium saw Australia post 241/7, with Mark Taylor and Ricky Ponting contributing runs. Sri Lanka responded with composure, anchored by Aravinda de Silva’s unbeaten century and Ranatunga’s steady leadership.
Match Highlights
• Australia scored 241/7 in 50 overs
• Aravinda de Silva: 107* runs and 3 wickets
• Arjuna Ranatunga: crucial 47* guiding the chase
• Sri Lanka won by 7 wickets with 22 balls to spare
Legacy Of The Victory
The triumph marked Sri Lanka’s rise in world cricket, inspiring generations and reshaping the nation’s sporting identity. It remains one of the most celebrated moments in cricket history.
Key Highlights
• Sri Lanka defeated Australia in 1996 World Cup final
• Aravinda de Silva scored 107* and took 3 wickets
• Ranatunga’s leadership pivotal in historic win
• First-ever World Cup title for Sri Lanka
• Victory celebrated as cricket’s greatest underdog story
Sources: ESPNcricinfo, ICC Archives, The Hindu Sports