Kumar Sangakkara is one of Sri Lanka’s greatest cricketers, widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeeper-batsmen in history. He scored over 28,000 international runs between 2000 and 2015, captained Sri Lanka, and later became the first non-British President of the MCC.
Personal Profile
- Full Name: Kumar Chokshanada Sangakkara
- Born: 27 October 1977, Matale, Sri Lanka
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
- Batting Style: Left-handed
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off break
- Role: Wicketkeeper-batsman
- Nickname: Sanga
International Career
- Test Debut: 20 July 2000 vs South Africa
- Last Test: 20 August 2015 vs India
- ODI Debut: 5 July 2000 vs Pakistan
- Last ODI: 18 March 2015 vs South Africa
- T20I Debut: 15 June 2006 vs England
- Last T20I: 6 April 2014 vs India
- Career Span: 2000–2015
Kumar Sangakkara Statistics
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | 100s/50s | Top Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 134 | 12,400 | 57.40 | 38/52 | 319 |
| ODI | 404 | 14,234 | 41.98 | 25/93 | 169 |
| T20I | 56 | 1,382 | 31.40 | 0/8 | 78 |
| First-Class | 260 | 20,911 | 54.19 | 63/104 | 319 |
Highlights & Legacy
- World Cup Finalist: Played in the 2007 and 2011 finals, captaining in 2011.
- ICC Cricketer of the Year (2012): Recognized for his consistency and leadership.
- Hall of Fame: Inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2021.
- Post-Career Roles: Commentator, MCC President (2019–2021), coach, and mentor in franchise cricket.
- Style: Elegant left-handed stroke play, renowned for cover drives and consistency.
Kumar Sangakkara’s Family
Kumar Sangakkara’s family includes his wife, Yehali Sangakkara, and their two children, Kavith and Swyree. His father, Swarnakumara Sangakkara, was an attorney, and his mother, Kumari Sangakkara a homemaker. The family is known for keeping a low profile while supporting Kumar’s cricketing and post-retirement career.
Immediate Family
- Wife: Yehali Sangakkara – Married in 2003, often seen at cricket events and charity functions.
- Children: Kavith & Swyree Sangakkara – Twins, occasionally photographed with their parents at public events.
- Father: Swarnakumara Sangakkara – Attorney, encouraged Kumar’s education and cricket.
- Mother: Kumari Sangakkara – Homemaker, provided strong family support.
Family Influence
- Education Support: Kumar studied at Trinity College, Kandy, where his parents emphasized academics alongside sports.
- Marriage Stability: Yehali has been a pillar of support during his cricketing highs and lows.
- Public Appearances: The family is occasionally seen at award ceremonies, cricket matches, and charity events.
- Private Life: Despite Kumar’s fame, the Sangakkaras maintain a private lifestyle, focusing on family values.
Kumar Sangakkara’s Networth
Kumar Sangakkara’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at around $25 million USD, making him one of Sri Lanka’s wealthiest cricketers. His wealth comes from international cricket earnings, IPL contracts, brand endorsements, commentary, and business ventures.
Net Worth Breakdown
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Net Worth | $25 million USD |
| International Career Earnings | Salaries from 134 Tests, 404 ODIs, and 56 T20Is (2000–2015) |
| IPL Contracts | Played for Kings XI Punjab and Deccan Chargers, earning millions in franchise cricket |
| Brand Endorsements | Deals with Pepsi, Huawei, MAS Holdings, Puma, and other global brands |
| Business Ventures | Investments in real estate, cricket academies, and hospitality projects |
| Post-Retirement Income | Commentary, MCC Presidency (2019–2021), coaching, and ambassador roles |
Key Income Sources
- Playing Career: One of Sri Lanka’s highest-paid cricketers, earning from match fees and contracts.
- IPL Earnings: Among the top foreign earners during his IPL stint.
- Endorsements: Global recognition as an elegant batsman made him a brand favorite.
- Business Ventures: Diversified portfolio in real estate and sports academies.
- Post-Career Roles: Commentary, MCC leadership, and franchise coaching.
Risks & Trade‑offs
- Sri Lanka Cricket Finances: Lower salaries compared to Indian or Australian stars limited peak earnings.
- IPL Short Stint: Played fewer seasons than contemporaries like AB de Villiers or Chris Gayle.
- Business Exposure: Investments in hospitality and real estate carry market risks.
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