The 1996 World Cup tournament was co-hosted by India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It was the second World Cup to be hosted by Pakistan and India, and for the first time by Sri Lanka. Three countries: United Arab Emirates, Kenya and the Netherlands, made their World Cup debuts in 1996. The best performing were Kenya, who recorded a surprise victory over the West Indies. In the final, played in Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Sri Lanka defeated Australia.
Trivia
- This tournament was officially called the Wills World Cup 1996 after its sponsors.
- At the World Cup in 1996, Australia and West Indies refused to play their matches against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka due to security concerns, causing both matches to be awarded to Sri Lanka by default. Also, Sri Lanka were awarded a victory for their semi-final by default against India because of crowd riots. This aided their campaign which eventually led to them winning the final.
- The final was played between Sri Lanka and Australia in Lahore, Pakistan. Australia made 241 runs in 50 overs for a loss of 7 wickets. In reply, Sri Lanka made 245 runs in 46.2 overs losing only 3 wickets on the way. The final result: Sri Lanka by 7 wickets.