ENGM vs SLM Highlights | Kumar Sangakkara’s Century Leads Sri Lanka Masters to Victory Over England Masters IML 2025

Kumar Sangakkara’s Century Powers Sri Lanka Masters to a Dominant Win Over England Masters

Kumar Sangakkara delivered a masterclass, smashing an unbeaten 106 off 47 balls, as Sri Lanka Masters chased down 147 in just 12.5 overs, securing a nine-wicket victory over England Masters in the International Masters League T20 2025. England struggled to build momentum, with Phil Mustard’s 50 being their lone highlight, while Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Udana and Gunaratne, kept them in check. Sri Lanka’s dominant chase, driven by Sangakkara’s brilliance, sealed a comprehensive win in Raipur.​

Scorecard

England Masters – 146/5 (20 Overs)

• Phil Mustard – 50 (39)
• Tim Ambrose – 17 (18)
• Darren Maddy – 15 (17)
• Tim Bresnan – 18* (17)
• Raisibe Ntozakhe – 5/11 (Bowling)

Sri Lanka Masters – 150/1 (12.5 Overs)

• Kumar Sangakkara – 106* (47)
• Romesh Kaluwitharana – 16 (18)
• Asela Gunaratne – 22* (12)

Sri Lanka Masters won by 9 wickets
Player of the Match: Kumar Sangakkara (106* off 47)

Raipur, March 10, 2025 – A vintage masterclass from Kumar Sangakkara propelled Sri Lanka Masters to an emphatic nine-wicket victory over England Masters in the International Masters League T20 2025 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur. Chasing 147, the Sri Lankan legend smashed a stunning century, reminding fans of his brilliance with the bat.

England Masters, led by Eoin Morgan, struggled to post a competitive total, finishing at 146/5 in 20 overs. Despite a few promising starts, none of their batters could convert their innings into a significant score. In response, Sri Lanka Masters dominated the chase, reaching 150/1 in just 12.5 overs, thanks to Sangakkara’s unbeaten 106 off 47 balls.

England Masters Struggle to Build Momentum

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Sri Lanka Masters made early inroads, keeping England’s scoring rate in check. The English openers Phil Mustard (50 off 39) and Eoin Morgan (10 off 14) started cautiously, but Morgan’s dismissal in the sixth over set them back.

Tim Ambrose (17) and Darren Maddy (15) tried to stabilize the innings, but Sri Lanka’s bowlers kept the pressure on. Raisibe Ntozakhe’s spell of 5/11 was the standout performance, dismantling the England batting lineup.

Tim Bresnan (18*) and Chris Tremlett (14*) added some late runs, ensuring England Masters reached a respectable total of 146/5 in 20 overs. However, with a modest run rate of 7.3, it was always going to be tough to defend against a Sri Lankan batting lineup boasting some of the game’s greats.

Sangakkara’s Unstoppable Century Seals the Win for Sri Lanka Masters

Chasing 147, Sri Lanka Masters got off to a blistering start, with Romesh Kaluwitharana (16 off 18) playing the supporting role while Sangakkara took charge. The duo added 108 runs for the opening wicket, with Sangakkara dispatching the bowlers to all parts of the ground.

Even after Kaluwitharana fell in the 10th over, Asela Gunaratne (22 off 12) kept up the momentum, ensuring there were no further hiccups. Sangakkara brought up his century in style, finishing unbeaten on 106 off just 47 balls, striking 19 fours and two sixes at a strike rate of 225.53.

Sri Lanka Masters sealed the chase in just 12.5 overs, showcasing their dominance in the tournament. The England bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught, with Ryan Sidebottom (2-0-30-0) and Boyd Rankin (2-0-27-0) proving expensive.

Player of the Match: Kumar Sangakkara

Unsurprisingly, Kumar Sangakkara was awarded Player of the Match for his breathtaking century, proving once again why he remains one of cricket’s greatest ever batters. His match-winning knock of 106 off 47 balls* was a masterclass in controlled aggression, guiding Sri Lanka Masters to a comfortable victory.

Key Takeaways from the Match

1. Sangakkara’s Vintage Brilliance – The Sri Lankan icon rolled back the years with a spectacular century, proving his class yet again.
2. England’s Struggles with the Bat – Despite a half-century from Phil Mustard, England Masters lacked partnerships to put up a competitive total.
3. Sri Lanka’s Clinical Bowling Attack – Udana, Gunaratne, and Chaturanga de Silva kept things tight, ensuring England never got away.
4. Sri Lanka’s Dominant Chase – A smooth, attacking approach saw them chase down the target in just 12.5 overs, highlighting their superior firepower.

Looking Ahead in the International Masters League T20 2025

With this dominant victory, Sri Lanka Masters have strengthened their position in the International Masters League T20 2025. Meanwhile, England Masters will have to regroup and work on their batting depth if they hope to bounce back in the tournament.