The first coming of the superbly efficient Hansie Cronje-led South African team. Bob Woolmer, as coach, had introduced tactics and training methods that were revolutionary in their own right. Allan Donald, Jonty Rhodes and Cronje himself were the cornerstones of this young team. In a period from January 13, 1996, to November 1, 1996, the South Africans lost only only twice in 25 matches.
Their longest winning streak came between January 13, 1996, to March 5, 1996.