ICC World XI: Player Analysis – Part 1
For cricket fans the world over, the ICC World Cup 2011 was a spectacle that will not soon be forgotten. Cricket’s premier tournament was filled with matches that thrilled everyone from fans of both participating sides, to neutrals who just wanted to enjoy
an entertaining game of cricket, as the World Cup did not disappoint.
There are many factors that contributed to the success and excitement of the competition, but in all honesty it was a hand-full of players who took it to a whole new level. The players who dazzled with their performances with the bat, electrified the atmosphere
with the ball and then there were even those who managed to do both, were all rewarded with a spot in the ICC World XI team.
The team was chosen by a panel of more than worthy judges which comprised of ICC Umpire of the Year Aleem Dar, the ICC General Manager David http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Richardson-c85395, Former Sri Lankan Captain and ICC Chief Match Referee Ranjan Madugalle, Anand Vasu from a popular sports
magazine and well respected journalist Christopher http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Martin-c74834.
Champions http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Pakistan-c755
each managed to have one representative in the squad of 12 players.
Kumar Sangakkara (C)
The Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara, was bestowed two honours, as he was elected both as the Captain of the ICC World XI as well the wicket-keeper for the side. His brilliant performance during the tournament was recognised, as he took his team to the
Finals of the World Cup. This meant that although http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Mahendra-Singh-Dhoni-c73820 led his side to claim the World Cup trophy, the Indian captain could not force his way into the side.
Sangakkara led from the front and his 465 runs in the 2011 edition of the World Cup meant that he would finish as the third highest run scorer of the tournament. His exceptional performance was the highlight for the Sri Lankan team.
His consistency with the bat reflected in his batting average of 93 runs. Add in his three half centuries and a century, and his contribution to the side was invaluable.
Glove work was another key factor, as he did not miss a single wicket taking opportunity as the Sri Lankan wicket-keeper and the judges noticed this and bestowed him the honour of being the keeper for the World XI as well.
In the end, his performances inspired his team and his tactical prowess did not go unnoticed either, as the panel honoured him with the captaincy of the side. His ability to understand and adapt his game plan during a match has made the Sri Lankan cricket
team what it is today. Although Sangakkara is recognised for his hard work and fierce competitive spirit, one can be sure that he would have traded all the personal accolades for the World Cup trophy itself.
It is a huge honour for the Sri Lankan captain and deservedly so. It was his consistent performances that kept his side in with a chance of winning every game.
[Continued in ‘ICC World XI: Player Analysis – Part 2]
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