ICC T20 World Cup 2012: West Indies Bring Power-Hitting to Sri Lanka
West Indies won the 2012 ICC World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka, defeating the host nation in the final with Marlon Samuels' match-winning innings of 78 not out.
The 2012 ICC World Twenty20 was held in Sri Lanka. West Indies — a team of power hitters playing uninhibited cricket — defeated host nation Sri Lanka in the final in Colombo, with Marlon Samuels delivering a composed match-winning performance that stood in contrast to the flamboyant batting of his teammates.
Chris Gayle's Dominance
Chris Gayle was the outstanding batsman of the 2012 tournament, producing a blistering century against South Africa in the semi-finals — one of the fastest in T20 international cricket. Gayle and Samuels formed the batting backbone, while Sunil Narine and Ravi Rampaul provided bowling variety.
The Final in Colombo
In the final on October 7, 2012, Sri Lanka posted 137 for 6. West Indies needed 138. Gayle fell early for 33, leaving Samuels to anchor the chase. Samuels hit 78 not out off 56 balls, and with Dwayne Bravo contributing at the end, West Indies reached 138 for 6 off the final ball — a dramatic win by one wicket in terms of resources.
Sri Lanka's Home Campaign
Sri Lanka were strong tournament hosts, with Tillakaratne Dilshan and Mahela Jayawardene providing explosive batting. Kumar Sangakkara kept wicket brilliantly throughout. But in the final, the West Indian power hitters proved too much, and Sri Lanka's bowling attack could not defend their total.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2012 T20 World Cup?
West Indies won the 2012 ICC World Twenty20, defeating Sri Lanka in the final in Colombo on October 7, 2012. Marlon Samuels scored an unbeaten 78.
Who was the standout batsman at the 2012 T20 World Cup?
Chris Gayle of West Indies was the outstanding batsman, scoring explosive innings including a century against South Africa in the semi-finals.