ICC T20 World Cup 2014: Sri Lanka's Jayawardene Bows Out a Champion
Sri Lanka won the 2014 ICC World Twenty20 in Bangladesh, with Mahela Jayawardene scoring 77 not out in his final T20 international innings to defeat India in the final.
The 2014 ICC World Twenty20 was held in Bangladesh. Sri Lanka, led by Lasith Malinga, defeated India in the final at Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. The match was made particularly poignant as Mahela Jayawardene, playing his final T20I, scored a masterful 77 not out to guide his country to victory.
India's Star-Studded Campaign
India arrived in Bangladesh as favourites. Virat Kohli was the leading run-scorer of the tournament with 319 runs at a strike rate over 130. India defeated South Africa, Australia, and West Indies on their way to the final, playing consistently good cricket throughout the group stage and knockouts.
Jayawardene's Farewell Innings
In the final on April 6, 2014, Sri Lanka batted first and Jayawardene crafted a brilliant 77 not out off 50 balls. Sri Lanka posted 134 for 4. India's chase fell apart against Lasith Malinga's death bowling — with Malinga taking 3 for 26. Sri Lanka won by six wickets, with Jayawardene walking off in his final T20 international innings as a World Cup champion.
Sri Lanka's Legacy
The 2014 win made Sri Lanka the most successful team in ICC T20 World Cup history at that point. Kumar Sangakkara also played his final T20I in the 2014 tournament. The result demonstrated that technically skilled batsmen could thrive in T20 formats, not just power-hitters.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2014 T20 World Cup?
Sri Lanka won the 2014 ICC World Twenty20, defeating India by six wickets in the final in Dhaka on April 6, 2014. Mahela Jayawardene scored 77 not out in his final T20I.
Who scored the most runs in the 2014 T20 World Cup?
Virat Kohli of India scored 319 runs — the most of any batsman in the tournament — but India fell short in the final against Sri Lanka.