IML 2025: Kumar Sangakkara turned back the clock with a breathtaking century to lead Sri Lanka Masters to a commanding nine-wicket victory over England Masters in their final group-stage match of the International Masters League (IML) 2025 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur.
The defeat ended England Masters’ hopes of reaching the knockouts, even though they have one match remaining. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Masters, having already secured a semifinal berth, strengthened their position at the top of the points table.
Sangakkara’s Masterclass Batting Display
Opting to bowl first, Sri Lanka’s bowlers restricted England Masters to a modest 146/5 in 20 overs. Then came a spectacular show from Kumar Sangakkara, who smashed an unbeaten 106 off 47 balls, including 19 fours and a six, to chase down the target in just 12.5 overs.
Sangakkara’s opening partner, Romesh Kaluwitharana, played second fiddle as Sri Lanka blazed their way to 76 runs in the powerplay. Despite losing Kaluwitharana (16) in the ninth over, the chase remained on course, with Asela Gunaratne (22 not out) ensuring a smooth finish.
Sangakkara completed his century with a single and then sealed the match with a six over long-on, delivering a vintage performance that left fans in awe.
England’s Struggle with the Bat
Batting first, England Masters started well with Phil Mustard’s aggressive 50 off 35 balls. He stitched crucial stands with Eoin Morgan (10) and Tim Ambrose (17), but the middle-order failed to capitalize.
Towards the end, Tim Bresnan (18 not out) and Chris Tremlett (14 not out) added 30 valuable runs, but Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Isuru Udana (1/21) and Asela Gunaratne (1/21), kept things tight, preventing any major acceleration.
Brief Scores:
England Masters: 146/5 in 20 overs (Phil Mustard 50, Tim Bresnan 18 not out; Isuru Udana 1/21, Asela Gunaratne 1/21)
Sri Lanka Masters: 147/1 in 12.5 overs (Kumar Sangakkara 106 not out, Asela Gunaratne 22 not out, Romesh Kaluwitharana 16)
Result: Sri Lanka Masters won by 9 wickets.
