Kumar Sangakkara, the former Sri Lankan captain, showcased his enduring cricket skills in a recent match for Shillingstone Cricket Club (CC) against Kingston Lacy CC in the third division of the Dorset Cricket League in the UK. Batting at number five, Sangakkara scored a brisk 68 runs off 50 balls, helping his team to a total of 177 runs in under 37 overs. His performance was crucial, given that Shillingstone CC managed to post a competitive total due to his quick half-century.

Interestingly, Sangakkara also contributed with the ball, taking one wicket and finishing with figures of 7-0-32-1. This role was quite different from his international career with Sri Lanka, where he was primarily known as a specialist batsman and wicketkeeper.

Kumar Sangakkara shocks sporting world by playing 3rd Division cricket in England.

What is Division Three Cricket?

Division Three cricket in the context of the Dorset Cricket League represents the fifth tier of recreational cricket in Dorset, a county in southwest England. This level of competition is part of the broader structure of recreational cricket in the UK, which is designed to cater to different skill levels and to promote the sport at a grassroots level. Teams in this division can include a mix of regular players and occasional appearances by former professionals, adding a unique element of competitiveness and excitement to the matches.

Notable Points:

• Team Performance: Shillingstone CC, the team Sangakkara played for, currently stands third in the league standings, having won two out of their five matches so far.
• Role Flexibility: The league rules allow teams to name multiple playing XIs, which explains how Sangakkara, despite not being part of the first-choice team, got the chance to participate in this match.
• Sangakkara’s Cricketing Legacy: Sangakkara is a celebrated figure in cricket, known for his exceptional record in both Test and ODI formats. His presence in a local league game underscores the appeal of recreational cricket in the UK and its ability to attract renowned former international players.

Sangakkara’s involvement in the Dorset Cricket League highlights the charm and accessibility of recreational cricket in England, where even local teams can occasionally feature cricketing legends, enriching the experience for both players and spectators alike.

Kumar Sangakkara shocks sporting world by playing 3rd Division cricket in England.