1996 Cricket World Cup

The 1996 Cricket World Cup was an international tournament held in India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka from February to March. It featured 12 teams competing in a one-day format, with each match lasting about 50 overs per side. The West Indies team was the defending champion but did not make it past the group stage. Sri Lanka won their first-ever World Cup title, defeating Australia in the final held at Lahore, Pakistan. The tournament was notable for its innovative pitches, fielding rules, and the debut of many future star players. It significantly boosted cricket's popularity across South Asia.