ICC Champions Trophy 1998: South Africa Beat West Indies — First CT Edition, Pollock POTM
The ICC Champions Trophy 1998 (originally called the ICC Wills International Cup) was the first edition of what became the ICC Champions Trophy, held in Dhaka, Bangladesh in October–November 1998. South Africa won the tournament, defeating West Indies by 4 wickets in the final at the Bangabandhu National Stadium, Dhaka on 1 November 1998. West Indies scored 245 for 7; South Africa reached 247 for 6 in 47.3 overs. Shaun Pollock was named Player of the Match. Lance Klusener was named Player of the Tournament. South Africa captain was Hansie Cronje. West Indies captain was Brian Lara. It was South Africa's first major ICC tournament title. The tournament had eight teams.
The ICC Champions Trophy 1998 — originally marketed as the ICC Wills International Cup — was the first edition of what became the ICC Champions Trophy. It was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh in October and November 1998. South Africa, captained by Hansie Cronje, were one of the most powerful ODI sides in the world at this point. West Indies, captained by Brian Lara, had a batting line-up capable of winning any match. Eight teams participated in the inaugural edition.
South Africa's First Major ICC Title
In the final at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka on 1 November 1998, West Indies scored 245 for 7. South Africa chased it with efficiency — reaching 247 for 6 in 47.3 overs, winning by 4 wickets. Shaun Pollock was named Player of the Match for his all-round contribution. Lance Klusener was named Player of the Tournament for his batting throughout the event. It was South Africa's first major ICC tournament title. The win confirmed South Africa's arrival as the dominant ODI side of the late 1990s.
Frequently asked questions
Which team won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy in 1998 and who were the key performers?
South Africa won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy (then called the ICC Wills International Cup) in 1998, held in Dhaka, Bangladesh. In the final on 1 November 1998, South Africa beat West Indies by 4 wickets — West Indies 245/7; South Africa 247/6 in 47.3 overs. Shaun Pollock was named Player of the Match; Lance Klusener was Player of the Tournament. Hansie Cronje captained South Africa; Brian Lara captained West Indies. It was South Africa's first major ICC tournament title.