Kumar Chokshanada Sangakkara (born October 27, 1977) is a renowned former Sri Lankan cricketer who made a significant impact on the world stage. Representing Sri Lanka in 134 Test matches from 2000 to 2015, Sangakkara’s career is marked by his exceptional skills both as a wicket-keeper and a batter. Over his illustrious career, he captained Sri Lanka in fifteen Test matches and played for several franchise teams, including stints with Nondescripts Cricket Club from 1997 to 2014 and Surrey County Cricket Club from 2015 to 2017. Born in Matale, Central Province, Sangakkara was part of the Sri Lankan squads that clinched the 2001-02 Asian Test Championship, the 2002 ICC Champions Trophy (jointly with India), and the 2014 T20 World Cup.
Sangakkara is widely regarded as one of the greatest wicket-keeper-batters in cricket history. A left-handed batter and an occasional right-arm off-spinner, he amassed a staggering 28,016 runs across all formats of international cricket, including 63 centuries, making him the second-highest run-scorer in the sport.
Early Life and Background
Born in Matale, Sangakkara was raised in a family with a deep appreciation for sports. His father, Kshema, a civil lawyer, and his mother, Kumari, were instrumental in fostering his athletic pursuits. Growing up in Kandy, Kumar was educated at Trinity College, where he excelled in both academics and sports, particularly cricket and tennis. Under the guidance of the college principal, Leonard de Alwis, Kumar chose to focus on cricket. His siblings, too, were accomplished athletes, with his sisters excelling in basketball and tennis and his brother representing the college in cricket and badminton.
Rise to Prominence
Sangakkara’s cricketing journey began in earnest when he joined Nondescripts Cricket Club in 1996. After impressive performances in domestic cricket and for the Sri Lanka under-19 team, he made his List A debut in 1997 and his first-class debut in 1998. His early performances, particularly a standout innings of 156 not out for Sri Lanka A against Zimbabwe A, earned him a spot in the national team in 2000.
International Career
Sangakkara made his ODI debut in July 2000 against Pakistan and his Test debut later that month against South Africa. His talent was evident from the outset, and he quickly established himself as a key player for Sri Lanka. Throughout his career, he played pivotal roles in several significant victories, including scoring a crucial 230 in the 2001-02 Asian Test Championship final against Pakistan.
From 2002 to 2006, Sangakkara continued to shine, both at home and abroad. Notable highlights include setting a world record partnership of 624 runs with Mahela Jayawardene against South Africa in 2006, a testament to his endurance and skill.
Leadership and Later Career
In 2006, Sangakkara was appointed vice-captain of the Sri Lankan team and later became captain. Under his leadership, Sri Lanka achieved numerous successes, including reaching the finals of the 2007 and 2011 ICC Cricket World Cups. His tenure as captain was marked by his strategic acumen and inspirational leadership.
Sangakkara also made significant contributions to English county cricket, playing for Warwickshire in 2007 and Surrey from 2015 to 2017. His stint with Surrey was particularly notable, culminating in his 100th century in all formats in 2017.
Post-Retirement Contributions
After retiring from international cricket in 2015, Sangakkara transitioned seamlessly into roles as a commentator for Sky Sports and as President of the MCC from 2019 to 2021. In January 2021, he became the coach of Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League. His contributions to cricket were further recognized when he was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in June 2021, becoming the second Sri Lankan player to receive this honor.
Recent Activities
Remarkably, Sangakkara has recently come out of retirement to play for Dorset Division 3 side Shillingstone CC, batting at number 5 and claiming he is “untested at this level.”
Legacy
Kumar Sangakkara’s legacy is one of extraordinary talent, unwavering dedication, and significant contributions to cricket both on and off the field. His journey from a young boy in Matale to one of the greatest cricketers of all time is an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of hard work, resilience, and a passion for the sport.
