THE SANGA SHOW

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Basin Reserve, Wellington [January, 2015].

In the Summer of 2014-15, Sri Lankan Cricket Team toured New Zealand to play 2 Test Matches and 7 One Day Internationals. The Hosts comfortably won the first test at Christchurch and the action now shifted to the National Capital. It was a must win game for the Lankans. On the other hand, even a draw would have helped Kiwis secure a series win.   

In this crucial test match, Sri Lankan Captain Angelo Mathews won the toss and elected to field first. The decision turned out to be a good one as the Lankan bowlers bowled out the Black Caps for just 221 runs in their first innings. Except Kane Williamson (69) no other Kiwi Batsman was able to reach his half century. For the Lankans, Nuwan Pradeep was the leading wicket taker as he picked up 4 crucial wickets. Apart from him Lakmal picked 3 and Dhammika was able to dismiss 2 batsmen.  

In response the Sri Lankans were struggling at 78/5. It seemed that the Kiwis will bowl them out in no time. However, this is when Kumar Sangakkara showed his class. He scored a magnificent 203 of 306 deliveries in which he hit 18 boundaries and 3 sixes. It was truly one of the greatest knocks Test Cricket has ever seen. Furthermore, it was an innings which was a treat to the eyes. Everyone was in awe with Kumar Sangakkara. Along with Chandimal and other lower batsmen Sanga stitched such wonderful partnerships that the Lankans ended up scoring 356 in their first innings. Hence, it can be said that it was only due to the efforts of Kumar Sangakkara which helped Lankans get a crucial lead of 135 runs. 

However, the Kiwis made a stronger comeback in the second innings as they declared at a score of 524/5. It is pertinent to note that at one stage the Kiwis were struggling at 159/5. Half of their side were down and they had a lead of just 24 runs. But, this is when Kane Williamson shared a historic 6th wicket partnership with BJ Watling as the duo took their team's score above 500. Kane Williamson scored a magnificent 242* ,while Watling too scored a gritty 142 and helped Kiwis set a massive target of 390 runs. 

In response the Lankans were bowled out for just 196 in their second innings. The Kiwis won the match as well as the series. Kane Williamson was awarded the man of the match award for his exceptional performance. However, no cricket fan can ever forget that classy knock of Kumar Sangakkara. It will remain in the memories forever. 

To watch the knock of Kumar Sangakkara, Click Here.