Sangakkara's Spectacular Century Propels Sri Lanka to IML Semifinals

Kumar Sangakkara delivered a masterful century to secure a commanding nine-wicket victory for Sri Lanka Masters over England Masters in the IML 2025, leading them to the semifinals. His outstanding performance, featuring 19 fours and a six, ended England's hopes of progressing, despite a spirited start from Phil Mustard.

Kumar Sangakkara rolled back the years with a scintillating century, guiding Sri Lanka Masters to a dominant nine-wicket victory against England Masters and securing a top spot in the International Masters League (IML) 2025 group stage on Monday. This defeat spelled elimination for England Masters' knockout aspirations, despite having one game remaining.

Having already secured their semifinal place, Sangakkara's squad entered the contest with confidence. Opting to bowl first, the Sri Lankan bowlers contained England Masters to a mere 146/5 in 20 overs. By chasing the target inside 15.4 overs, Sangakkara led from the front, delivering a 47-ball 106, featuring 19 boundaries and a six, showcasing his timeless stroke play.

Sangakkara's masterful innings dismantled the England Masters' bowling attack, with Romesh Kaluwitharana complementing him effectively. The opening duo raced to 76 runs during the powerplay, with Sangakkara's precision keeping English bowlers on the back foot. Despite a late wicket by Dimitri Mascarenhas, the Sri Lankan side coasted to victory in 12.5 overs.

Phil Mustard's brisk 35-ball 50 provided England with a promising foundation, but frequent strikes by the Sri Lankan bowlers halted the momentum. Despite late contributions from Tim Bresnan and Chris Tremlett, the English side finished at 146/5, unable to push beyond. Sri Lanka's bowling, guided by Isuru Udana and Asela Gunaratne, stifled England's attempts to accelerate.

In summary, Sri Lanka Masters' comprehensive triumph over England was powered by a combination of tactical bowling and Sangakkara's batting brilliance, capping off their group stage campaign in style.

(With inputs from agencies.)