T20 World Cup 2014: Sri Lanka Win at Home
How Sri Lanka won the 2014 ICC World Twenty20 on home soil in Bangladesh, with Kumar Sangakkara's batting and a mature bowling performance defeating India in the final.
The 2014 ICC World Twenty20 was held in Bangladesh and featured the most dramatic final of any ICC event up to that point. Sri Lanka defeated India by 6 wickets in the final at Mirpur, Dhaka — achieving their only ICC T20 World Cup title and completing an extraordinary chapter in Sri Lankan cricket's golden generation.
India's Strong Run
India, led by MS Dhoni, had been dominant throughout the tournament. Virat Kohli was in outstanding form, scoring 319 runs across the event to be named Player of the Tournament — including a Player of the Match performance in the semi-final. India looked set for back-to-back T20 World Cup titles.
The Dhaka Final
India set Sri Lanka 131 to win. Kohli top-scored with 77 off 58 balls in that total. In reply, Sri Lanka lost early wickets, but Kumar Sangakkara (52 not out off 35) and Lahiru Thirimanne steadied the chase. Malinga's earlier bowling performance (2 for 19) had kept India to a manageable target. Sri Lanka reached 130 for 4 off the penultimate over, winning with 13 balls to spare.
Sri Lanka's Golden Generation
The 2014 victory was one of the last major ICC titles for Sri Lanka's golden generation that had included Sangakkara, Jayawardene, and Dilshan. Jayawardene played his final T20 international in the 2014 World Cup. The title capped an extraordinary era for Sri Lankan cricket that had included the 1996 ODI World Cup, multiple Test series wins, and consistent ICC tournament performance.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the T20 World Cup 2014?
Sri Lanka, defeating India by 6 wickets in the final at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur, Dhaka.
Who was Player of the Tournament at the 2014 T20 World Cup?
Virat Kohli of India, who scored 319 runs across the tournament — despite India losing the final.
Who captained Sri Lanka in the 2014 T20 World Cup final?
Lasith Malinga, making him the only bowling captain to lift a T20 World Cup trophy.