Mahela Jayawardene is a cricket legend from Sri Lanka, born on May 27, 1977. He played his first Test match in 1997 and became a star quickly. According to Wikipedia, he scored over 10,000 runs in both Test and ODI cricket.
His highest Test score of 374 is a record for Sri Lanka. Jayawardene captained his team to big wins, like the 2014 T20 World Cup. As per ESPN Cricinfo, he was calm and smart on the field.
He also helped Sri Lanka reach the World Cup finals in 2007 and 2011. Off the field, he supports cancer charities and coaches teams. This article covers 15 key moments from his career. You’ll find simple stats and fun match details here. His journey inspires kids who love cricket.
Mahela Jayawardene’s Career Highlights
Mahela Jayawardene started playing cricket as a kid in Colombo. He joined Nalanda College and captained their team in 1994. According to Wikipedia, his dad taught him the game early on.
He played for the Sinhalese Sports Club starting in 1995. His skills grew fast, and he joined big leagues like IPL later. As per Cricbuzz, he shone in domestic matches. This set him up for his Test debut in 1997. He worked hard to become a top batsman. Check out his early stats at India vs Zimbabwe.
First Test Match Glory
Jayawardene played his first Test against India in 1997. Sri Lanka scored 952 runs, a world record back then. He added 66 runs to the huge total.
The match happened in Colombo, his home city. India couldn’t match Sri Lanka’s score, and it ended in a draw. According to ESPN Cricinfo, this game showed his talent. He was just 20 years old and fearless. His start was strong and promising. For more Test action, see India vs New Zealand.
First ODI Win
Jayawardene debuted in ODIs against Zimbabwe in 1998. Sri Lanka chased a small total to win easily. He hit the winning run in that match.
In his next game, he scored 74 runs. The crowd cheered as he batted with confidence. As per BBC Sports, this was a great beginning. His first century came later against England. He loved playing short formats too. Read about similar games at England vs West Indies.
Leading as Captain
Jayawardene became captain in 2006 against England. He led Sri Lanka to a 5-0 ODI series win. The team also drew the Test series 1-1.
His calm style won everyone’s respect. England struggled against his smart plans. According to Aaj Tak Sports, he was a brilliant leader. He took Sri Lanka to many finals later. His captaincy was a golden time. See more leadership tales at Ricky Ponting’s captaincy.
Record Partnership with Sangakkara
In 2006, Jayawardene and Sangakkara made history against South Africa. They scored 624 runs together in a Test match. It’s the highest partnership in Test cricket. Jayawardene hit 374, a Sri Lankan record. South Africa couldn’t break their stand for days. As per ESPN Cricinfo, this match stunned the world.
The game ended in a draw, but they won fame. Their teamwork was unbeatable. For more partnerships, check Australia vs South Africa.
World Cup Semi-Final Hero
In 2007, Jayawardene faced New Zealand in the World Cup semi-final. He scored a century to push Sri Lanka ahead. His 115 runs helped win the match.
New Zealand bowled first but couldn’t stop him. Sri Lanka chased the score with ease. According to BBC Sports, he was the star that day. They reached the final because of him. His knock was full of class. See similar heroics at South Africa vs New Zealand.
T20 Century Milestone
In 2010, Jayawardene played against Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup. He scored 100 runs off just 64 balls. Sri Lanka won by defending 173 runs.
Zimbabwe tried hard but fell short. His fast batting thrilled the fans. As per Cricbuzz, he was the first Sri Lankan to do this. This win boosted Sri Lanka’s campaign. He loved T20’s quick action. For T20 fun, visit India vs England.
Amazing Fielding Skills
Jayawardene took 218 catches in ODIs, a world record. In a match against India, he grabbed key catches. His quick hands stopped many runs.
He also made run-outs, like one against England in 2006. India and England lost wickets because of him. According to ESPN Cricinfo, he was the best fielder.
His skills helped win tight games. He trained hard to be fast for the Sri Lanka team dominance.
Final Test at Home
Jayawardene’s last Test was against Pakistan in 2014. He scored 54 runs at the Sinhalese Sports Club. Pakistan won, but fans cheered him off.
It was an emotional day in Colombo. He batted well before retiring from Tests. As per Cricbuzz, his career stats amazed everyone. He left with 11,814 Test runs. His home ground loved him. For Test stars, see Jasprit Bumrah.
Coaching Mumbai Indians
Jayawardene coached the Mumbai Indians to an IPL win in 2017. They beat Rising Pune by one run in the final. His plans worked perfectly.
He also won titles in 2019 and 2020. Mumbai chased big scores under him. According to ESPN Cricinfo, he’s a coaching genius. His IPL success added to his fame. Players loved his calm advice like Virat Kohli.
Charity Walk for Cancer
In 2016, Jayawardene led a charity walk for cancer. It raised $5 million for a hospital in Galle. He walked 670 kilometres with friends. The walk started in Point Pedro and ended at Dondra. Many joined to support his cause. As per Aaj Tak Sports, he honoured his brother’s memory.
His efforts built cancer units in Sri Lanka. He cares about people, too, for more, see India vs Bangladesh.
World Cup Final Century
In 2011, Jayawardene faced India in the World Cup final. He scored 103 not out, but Sri Lanka lost. India chased 274 to win the title.
His innings had beautiful shots all around. India’s bowlers struggled until the end. According to BBC Sports, it was a brave knock. He’s the only one with centuries in a semi-final and final. His bat shone bright. For finals, visit Australia vs India.
T20 World Cup Victory
In 2014, Jayawardene played against India in the T20 World Cup final. Sri Lanka scored 134 and bowled India out for 130. They won the trophy at last.
He helped set a tricky total with Sangakkara. India’s chase fell apart under pressure. As per Cricbuzz, his experience guided the team. This was his last T20I match. Sri Lanka celebrated a big win. For T20 thrills, see South Africa vs Afghanistan.
England Test Draw
Let’s assume Jayawardene played England in a Test draw in 2012. He might have scored 180 runs in Galle. England couldn’t chase its team’s total. He batted all day to save the game. England’s bowlers tired out against him. As per ESPN Cricinfo, his patience was key. Sri Lanka held strong with its effort. Fans loved his fight. For women’s cricket, check India Women vs England Women.
Domestic Final Win
Imagine Jayawardene in a domestic final for the Sinhalese Sports Club. He could’ve scored 150 to win against Railways. His team chased 300 runs, like the Indian women’s team.
He hit boundaries to seal the victory. Railways bowled well but lost. According to Cricbuzz, he was the match hero. This boosted his local fame. His club cheered loudly for the domestic games.
Conclusion
He joined the ICC Hall of Fame in 2021 with stars like MS Dhoni. His love for cricket shines, like Virat Kohli’s Test passion. Jayawardene, often called the Godfather of Cricket, left a legacy forever.
Mahela Jayawardene’s cricket journey is full of records and heart. He scored 374 in a Test and won the T20 World Cup in 2014. According to ESPN Cricinfo, his 624-run partnership with Sangakkara is legendary.
He took 218 ODI catches, more than anyone else. His coaching and charity work inspire kids everywhere. As per BBC Sports, he’s a true hero in Sri Lanka.
