Sangakkara to lead Sri Lanka in International Masters League 2024

The legendary cricketer Kumar Sangakkara is set to lead Sri Lanka in this tournament. Sachin Tendulkar (India), Shane Watson (Australia), Eoin Morgan (England), Brian Lara (West Indies) and Jacques Kallis (South Africa) will lead the other five teams.

The D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai is set to host the opening leg of four matches for the International Masters League. The tournament will begin with an exciting clash between India and Sri Lanka on November 17, featuring a nostalgic face-off between Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara. The second match will see Shane Watson’s Australia take on Jacques Kallis’ South Africa, followed by Sri Lanka facing off against Eoin Morgan’s England. Brian Lara and the West Indies team will then go up against Australia in what is expected to be a thrilling contest.

After the initial matches in Navi Mumbai, the International Masters League action will shift to Lucknow’s Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee (BRSABV) Ekana Cricket Stadium on November 21, where India will face South Africa. Lucknow will host a total of six matches before the league moves to Raipur’s Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium. Raipur will feature eight games, including the highly anticipated semi-finals and the grand final on December 8, where the first-ever champions of the International Masters League will be crowned.

Cricket icon and League Ambassador Sachin Tendulkar expressed his excitement about the International Masters League (IML), saying, “As the ambassador and face of the IML, I am looking forward to leading and representing India Masters in the league. The action on the field will no doubt be competitive and exciting. All the players are enthused at the prospect of playing the IML at multiple venues. It’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation while celebrating the sport that we all love.”

Brian Lara, captain of the West Indies team, shared his enthusiasm for the International Masters League, stating, “It’s going to be amazing to step back onto the field with such a talented group of players. The format is fast, exciting, and competitive just what the fans want.”

England captain Eoin Morgan remarked, “The IML brings the best of both worlds cricketing legends and franchise competition. It’s going to be a phenomenal experience for both players and fans.”

Jacques Kallis, South Africa’s captain, said, “The chance to play in such a competitive environment again is thrilling. The IML will showcase not only our talent but also our passion for the game.”

Australia captain Shane Watson said, “It’s incredible to see so many legends of the game coming together in one league. I’m excited to lead Australia and will hopefully deliver some top-notch cricket for the fans.”

Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara added, “Playing against the best once again in this format is special. Fans will get to see competitive cricket and relive some unforgettable moments.”

League Commissioner Sunil Gavaskar said, “Stalwarts from every country will be playing the International Masters League. For them, it is a wonderful opportunity to showcase their skills and show the world that they are still very good. These guys don’t know what it is to take it easy. It is going to be an exciting league, with close contests. I am sure it will be a worth a treat for all those who come to the ground and watch on the television.”