Sri Lankan · Colombo, Sri Lanka · Born 27 May 1977Mahela Jayawardene is a Sri Lankan batter and former captain, one of the sport's most elegant players, who scored a national-record 374 against South Africa in 2006.
Mahela Deshamanya Jayawardene was born in Colombo, Sri Lanka in 1977 and became one of the finest batsmen and captains in the history of Sri Lankan cricket. His Test record: 11,814 runs in 149 matches at 49.84 with 34 centuries — the most by any Sri Lankan along with Sangakkara until Sangakkara surpassed him. His ODI record: 12,650 runs in 448 matches at 33.37 with 19 centuries. He plays for Sinhalese SC and played county cricket for Kent. He captained Sri Lanka 48 times in Tests. His world-record partnership of 624 with Kumar Sangakkara against South Africa in Colombo in 2006 is the highest partnership in Test cricket history. His 374 in the same match is Sri Lanka's highest individual Test score. He took 205 catches in Tests — the most by a fielder in Sri Lankan cricket history. He was Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 2008. He was named one of Wisden's Cricketers of the Decade for 2000–2010. He was a pioneer in T20 batting strategy, contributing to Sri Lanka's 2014 World Twenty20 victory. After retirement he became a highly influential batting and team coaching consultant across multiple franchises worldwide.
Former Sri Lanka captain, holds Sri Lanka's highest individual Test score of 374
His partnership with Sangakkara of 624 runs against South Africa in 2006 is the highest partnership in Test cricket history.
Did You Know?How They Played
Jayawardene was renowned for his elegant and technically sound batting style, particularly strong through the off-side with crisp drives and cuts. He possessed excellent footwork against spin bowling and was known for his calm temperament and ability to build partnerships. His batting was characterized by timing rather than power, making him effective in both Test and limited-overs formats.
Lasting Impact
Jayawardene is remembered as one of Sri Lanka's greatest batsmen and most successful captains, helping establish the country as a major force in world cricket. His leadership and batting contributions during Sri Lanka's golden era left a lasting impact on the sport in the subcontinent.
Career Honours
- World T20 winner 2014
- ICC Cricket Hall of Fame 2021
| Club | Period | Matches | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sinhalese SC | 1993–2015 | 149 | 11814 |
| Kent | 2004–2004 | 12 | 642 |
| Kings XI Punjab | 2008–2013 | — | — |
| Delhi Daredevils | 2014–2016 | — | — |
| Kochi Tuskers Kerala | 2011–2011 | — | — |
Sri Lankan Athletes