Cricket World Cup History: Ranking the top 5 batting performances in World Cup finals

#2 Aravinda de Silva’s 107* vs Australia, 1996

Aravinda de Silva

Even before he came out to bat, Aravinda de Silva had already put up the best performance in the game as he had picked up three wickets for 42 runs to keep the momentum in favour of Sri Lanka. He followed it up with arguably the most elegant knock in a World Cup final as his 107* gave Sri Lanka their maiden World Cup. He walked into bat as both the openers were departed cheaply and his partnership with Asanka Gurusinha restored calmness in the dressing room.

In this magnificent knock, he literally owned the leg side as anything that was too straight was flicked and pulled. The Aussie bowlers had no answer for de Silva’s nimble footwork and classy touch as Sri Lanka won the game easily. He played more flamboyant knocks throughout his career but this one will always remain special in the heart of the Lankans and cricket enthusiasts.