2 November 1998

Bangladesh Premier witnesses the final

by Zahid Newaz

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina witnessed the final of the ninenation Wills International Cup Cricket and handed over the trophy to the winning captain of South Africa Sunday night.

Springbok skipper Hansie Cronje received the trophy from the Prime Minister, who is famous as a cricket fan, amid thunderous applause and cheers from jam packed crowd in the Bangabandhu National Stadium, named after her assassinated father and independence leader of the country.

Hasina was first introduced to the ICC officials to the hospitality centre outside the stadium.

ICC President Jagmohan Dalmiya received her at about 8.15 pm and took her to the hospitality box. BCB president Saber Hossain Chowdhury and State Minister for Sports Obaidul Quader were present.

Dalmiya thanked the Prime Minister, BCB officials and the people of Bangladesh for successful holding of such an wonderful tournament despite the devastating flood. The ICC president said they will again organise this type of tournament in this country and presented a replica of the Wills Cup to the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also thanked the ICC officials for holding this tournament here and the people for their jubilant support. She then went to the VVIP gallery and witnessed the match for over one hour and handed over the trophy to the champions.

Source :: CricInfo365