Kumar Sangakkara, one of cricket's most distinguished figures, represented Sri Lanka with a remarkable career spanning from 2000 to 2015. His prowess as a left-handed batsman and occasional right-arm off-spinner, coupled with his skill as a wicketkeeper, placed him among the sport's elite. Sangakkara's statistics are a testament to his consistency and excellence: in Tests, he scored 12,400 runs at an average of 57.40, including 38 centuries, with a top score of 319. In ODIs, he amassed 14,234 runs at an average of 41.98, with 25 centuries. His T20I career, although less prolific, still showcased his versatility with 1,382 runs. Notably, Sangakkara's contributions were instrumental in Sri Lanka's victories and strong performances in numerous ICC tournaments, including their win in the 2014 T20 World Cup and runner-up finishes in the 2011 and 2007 ODI World Cups. Beyond his playing days, Sangakkara has remained influential in cricket, serving roles such as commentator and coach, and was rightfully inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in June 2021, celebrating his enduring legacy in the sport.
Mahela Jayawardene, celebrated for his cricketing intellect and elegant batting, significantly impacted Sri Lankan cricket. Born on May 27, 1977, he led Sri Lanka with distinction, showcasing his prowess in numerous international fixtures. Jayawardene's career is adorned with remarkable achievements, including a historic Test partnership of 624 runs with Kumar Sangakkara and a monumental Test score of 374 against South Africa, the highest by a Sri Lankan. His leadership saw Sri Lanka reaching World Cup finals and clinching the T20 World Cup in 2014. Post-retirement, Jayawardene's influence continues as a coach and cricket commentator, contributing to the sport's development.
The debate and discussion to find out who is better between Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene mostly forgot their remarkable partnership.
Their partnership is one of the most celebrated in cricket history, highlighted by their world-record stand of 624 runs against South Africa in 2006 at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo.
This partnership remains the highest for any wicket in both Test and first-class cricket to this day. Jayawardene's contribution was a monumental 374 runs, making it the fourth-highest individual score in Test cricket and the highest by a Sri Lankan.
Sangakkara complemented with a stellar 287, marking the highest Test score by a wicketkeeper at the time. Their combined effort not only set records for individual scores but also for partnership runs.
However, with that undeniable partnership, the question still remain, who has better performances between Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene?
Kumar Sangakkara Career Statistics
Career Batting Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Not Outs (NO)
Runs (R)
High Score (HS)
Average (Avg.)
Balls Faced (BF)
Strike Rate (SR)
Hundreds (H)
Fifties (50x)
Fours (4s)
Sixes (6s)
ODI
404
380
41
14234
169
41.99
18049
78.86
25
93
1385
88
T20i
56
53
9
1382
78
31.41
1156
119.55
0
8
139
20
IPL
71
68
3
1687
94
25.95
1392
121.19
0
10
195
27
Test
134
233
16
12400
319
57.14
22882
54.19
38
52
1491
51
Career Bowling Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Balls (B)
Runs (R)
Wickets (W)
BBM
Average (Avg.)
Economy (Econ.)
Strike Rate (SR)
5W
10W
Test
134
4
84
49
0
0/4
0.0
3.5
0.0
0
0
ODI
404
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
T20i
56
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
IPL
71
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Mahela Jayawardene Career Statistics
Career Batting Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Not Outs (NO)
Runs (R)
High Score (HS)
Average (Avg.)
Balls Faced (BF)
Strike Rate (SR)
Hundreds (H)
Fifties (50x)
Fours (4s)
Sixes (6s)
ODI
448
418
39
12650
144
33.38
16019
78.97
19
77
1119
76
T20i
55
55
8
1493
100
31.77
1121
133.18
1
9
173
33
IPL
80
78
15
1802
110
28.6
1462
123.26
1
10
200
39
Test
149
252
15
11814
374
49.85
22959
51.46
34
50
1387
61
Career Bowling Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Balls (B)
Runs (R)
Wickets (W)
BBM
Average (Avg.)
Economy (Econ.)
Strike Rate (SR)
5W
10W
Test
149
22
589
310
6
2/32
51.67
3.16
98.17
0
0
ODI
448
28
593
563
8
2/56
70.38
5.7
74.12
0
0
T20i
55
1
6
8
0
0/8
0.0
8.0
0.0
0
0
IPL
80
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene
Many cricket enthusiasts and analysts are trying to determine “who is the best” by comparing Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene. Beyond this comparison, these two are among the greatest players in Sri Lanka’s cricket history.
Both often accompanied each other as teammates, and their partnership is recognized as one of the best duos at that time. A noteworthy moment in their partnership occurred during the ICC T20 World Cup 2012.
In the ICC T20 World Cup 2012, Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene were involved in a notable incident where they traded places as captain for a Super Eight match to exploit a loophole in ICC’s over-rate penalty rules.
This switch occurred during Sri Lanka’s campaign in the tournament, where they aimed to avoid a potential one-match ban for Jayawardene due to slow over rates in a previous match.
The strategic move allowed Jayawardene to play without the risk of missing the semi-final, showcasing the tactical depth both players brought to the game.
Their partnership is a validation to their remarkable performances and serves as an example of their prowess. However, the debate over “who is better” between Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene continues.
Summary and Key Takeaways
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Head to Head Comparison: Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene
Partnership and Team Dynamics:
Sangakkara and Jayawardene were not only individual cricket legends but also one of the most iconic duos in Sri Lankan cricket history.
Their partnership on the field was highlighted during the ICC T20 World Cup 2012, where they showcased strategic acumen by swapping captaincy roles to navigate ICC's over-rate penalty rules.
Individual Achievements and Career Highlights:
Kumar Sangakkara:
Renowned for his elegant batting and efficient wicket-keeping.
Amassed 12,400 runs in Tests with an average of 57.40 and 14,234 runs in ODIs.
Played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka's 2014 T20 World Cup victory.
Mahela Jayawardene:
Known for his strategic thinking and masterful batting.
Scored 11,814 runs in Tests and 12,650 runs in ODIs.
Led Sri Lanka to numerous victories, including the 2014 T20 World Cup.
Comparison and Legacy:
The debate over who is better between Sangakkara and Jayawardene continues, with each having unique strengths.
Sangakkara's higher averages and wicket-keeping role might give him an edge in the comparison.
Jayawardene's leadership and strategic contributions, along with his own batting achievements, make the comparison more about celebrating their legacies than determining a definitive ranking.
Impact Beyond Statistics:
Both players have significantly contributed to Sri Lankan cricket, not just through their performances but also through their leadership and sportsmanship.
Their careers are a testament to their prowess on the field and their ability to inspire future generations.
Who Has a Better Performance: Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene?
Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene, two biggest figures in the world of cricket, have left an indelible mark with their remarkable performances.
Both hailing from Sri Lanka, they have not only dominated the cricketing field with their prowess but also carried the spirit of the game with utmost dignity and respect.
Their careers, adorned with numerous records and accolades, present a fascinating comparison. Who has the better performance between Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene?
The Highlight of Kumar Sangakkara’s Cricket Career
Kumar Sangakkara, known for his elegant batting style and sharp wicket-keeping skills, has been a cornerstone of Sri Lankan cricket.
With a Test batting average of 57.40, Sangakkara amassed 12,400 runs in 134 matches, including 38 centuries and 52 half-centuries.
His ODI career is equally impressive, with 14,234 runs in 404 matches at an average of 41.98, featuring 25 centuries and 93 fifties. Sangakkara’s T20I record includes 1,382 runs in 56 matches.
Notably, his highest Test score of 319 against Bangladesh showcases his ability to play long and impactful innings.
Sangakkara’s leadership on the field and his role in winning the 2014 T20 World Cup highlight his significant contributions to Sri Lankan cricket.
The Highlight of Mahela Jayawardene’s Cricket Career
Mahela Jayawardene, celebrated for his strategic acumen and masterful batting, has been a pivotal figure in Sri Lanka’s cricketing saga.
In Tests, Jayawardene scored 11,814 runs in 149 matches at an average of 49.84, including 34 centuries and 50 fifties. His ODI career boasts 12,650 runs in 448 matches with 19 centuries and 77 half-centuries.
Jayawardene’s T20I career includes 1,493 runs in 55 matches. His highest Test score of 374 against South Africa is a testament to his skill and endurance.
Jayawardene’s captaincy led Sri Lanka to numerous victories, including the 2014 T20 World Cup, and his fielding prowess has set high standards in international cricket.
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Comparison of Mahela Jayawardene vs Kumar Sangakkara: Who is Better?
The debate between Mahela Jayawardene vs Kumar Sangakkara cricketing prowess is as enduring as their legacies. Both players have had illustrious careers, marked by numerous records and unforgettable performances.
To provide clarity in the comparison of Sangakkara vs Jayawardene, here are the key statistics and achievements of both players:
1. Career Span and Experience
Sangakkara’s career spanned from 2000 to 2015, while Jayawardene’s career extended from 1997 to 2015, giving Jayawardene a slightly longer exposure at the international level.
2. Performance in Tests
Sangakkara has a higher average and more centuries in Tests compared to Jayawardene, indicating a higher level of consistency and ability to convert starts into big scores.
Jayawardene’s highest Test score of 374 surpasses Sangakkara’s best of 319, showcasing his capability for monumental innings.
3. Role and Versatility
Sangakkara also served as a wicket keeper, adding significant value to his team beyond his batting contributions.
4. Impact and Leadership
Both players have captained the Sri Lankan team, with Jayawardene known for his astute leadership and strategic acumen on the field.
Final Words on Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene Comparison
Comparing Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene is not just about numbers; it’s about the impact they’ve had on and off the field.
Sangakkara’s superior averages and consistency across formats, coupled with his wicket-keeping skills, present a strong case for his overall performance.
Jayawardene, on the other hand, has been instrumental in key Sri Lankan victories and is renowned for his captaincy and strategic thinking.
Both players have shared monumental partnerships, most notably their world-record 624-run stand against South Africa in 2006.
While Sangakkara might have an edge in statistical achievements, Jayawardene’s leadership and critical performances in big matches add a significant dimension to his career.
Ultimately, the comparison between Kumar Sangakkara vs Mahela Jayawardene transcends mere statistics, celebrating two legendary careers that have enriched cricket’s legacy.
