At R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, July 26. Sri Lanka won by eight wickets. Toss: India. International debut: N. M. Kulkarni.

Jayasuriya and Atapattu ensured a one-sided final, wiping out more than half a target of 240 with an opening partnership of 137 off 109 balls. Sri Lanka won with more than 13 overs to spare, to regain the Asia Cup after 11 years. India fielded only three front-line bowlers, and paid dearly; Jayasuriya raced to 63 off 52 balls and Ranatunga finished the job with an unbeaten 62 off 67. Atapattu, meanwhile, played the anchor role to perfection. India's total revolved around their most experienced pair, Tendulkar and Azharuddin, who added 109. Azharuddin scored 81 but hit only one four and two sixes, while Tendulkar made 53 with two fours. A stunning Sri Lankan fielding display featured five marvellous outfield catches.

Man of the Match: M. S. Atapattu. Man of the Series: A. Ranatunga.

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