2011 Cricket World Cup Final: A Thrilling Scorecard Breakdown

Oct 29, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 62 views

Hey sports fanatics! Remember the nail-biting 2011 Cricket World Cup final? India versus Sri Lanka – what a clash! It was more than just a game; it was a rollercoaster of emotions, skill, and sheer determination. Let's dive deep into the World Cup 2011 final scorecard and dissect every thrilling moment, shall we?

The Stage is Set: Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai

The atmosphere at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai was electric! The roar of the crowd, the vibrant colors, and the sheer anticipation hanging in the air were palpable. It was a pressure cooker environment, and the stakes couldn't have been higher: the Cricket World Cup trophy. India, led by the legendary MS Dhoni, was up against a formidable Sri Lankan side, captained by Kumar Sangakkara. Both teams had fought their way through the tournament, showcasing incredible talent and resilience. This wasn't just a match; it was a battle of titans, a contest that would etch itself into cricketing history. The buzz around the stadium was phenomenal, with fans from all over the world coming together to witness this epic showdown. The stage was perfectly set for a memorable final, with both teams eager to prove their mettle and lift the coveted trophy. The energy in the stadium was contagious, igniting the passion of the players and the spectators alike.

Toss and Team Selection

Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat, a decision that added another layer of intrigue to the contest. The pitch looked good for batting, but the pressure of a World Cup final can often dictate the course of the game. Sri Lanka's batting lineup was packed with experienced campaigners, while India had a balanced team capable of both aggressive batting and tight bowling. The team selections were crucial. Sri Lanka, looking to post a challenging total, aimed to utilize the early overs effectively. India, on the other hand, strategized to keep the scoring rate in check and create opportunities for wickets. Every player was aware of the importance of the match, and the tactical decisions made by the captains would play a vital role. The toss, in a high-pressure match, could be a turning point, setting the tone for the entire encounter. Both teams had their game plans ready, knowing that execution on the field was the key to victory.

Sri Lanka's Innings: Building a Competitive Total

Sri Lanka's innings began with the openers looking to build a solid foundation. Their early progress was steady, but the Indian bowlers, known for their precision and control, kept the scoring rate in check. The Sri Lankan batsmen had to be cautious, as every run was crucial. The middle overs witnessed some crucial partnerships. Mahela Jayawardene played a magnificent innings, crafting a beautiful century and anchoring the Sri Lankan batting. His composed approach and elegant strokeplay were a treat to watch. The Indian bowlers, however, kept chipping away, taking crucial wickets at regular intervals to maintain control. The pressure was building on the Sri Lankan batsmen as the innings progressed. They needed to accelerate the scoring rate to post a challenging total. The death overs were crucial, with both teams giving it their all. Sri Lanka finished with a competitive score, setting the stage for an exciting chase.

Key Performances for Sri Lanka

Mahela Jayawardene: His masterful century was the cornerstone of Sri Lanka's innings, providing stability and guiding the team to a respectable total. His elegant strokeplay and composed demeanor under pressure were a testament to his class. He remained not out. His innings was a blend of skill, patience, and unwavering focus, making him the star performer for Sri Lanka. His innings was a masterclass in batting, displaying an array of shots and strategic brilliance. It was a performance that highlighted his experience and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His century was a crucial contribution to their final score. His batting prowess was on full display. His performance was commendable.
Kumar Sangakkara: The captain played a steady hand, providing support and contributing valuable runs to the total. His leadership and experience were crucial in guiding the team through tough periods. His composed approach and ability to handle pressure were significant. His innings helped build momentum. His contributions set the foundation. His influence was visible.

India's Chase: A Nerve-Wracking Pursuit

India's chase began with the weight of expectations on their shoulders. The crowd was roaring, but the pressure was immense. The Sri Lankan bowlers started with tight lines, making it difficult for the Indian openers to score freely. India lost early wickets, putting the team in a precarious situation. The experienced batsmen had to rebuild the innings. The middle overs were tense, with both teams trading blows. The momentum swung back and forth, keeping everyone on the edge of their seats. The turning point came with a crucial partnership. MS Dhoni's composed batting and strategic brilliance played a pivotal role in changing the course of the match. India, requiring a manageable total, had to avoid any further wickets. The chase was nerve-wracking, with every run and every boundary celebrated. In the end, India held their nerve and chased down the target, creating history.

The Turning Point: Dhoni's Masterclass

MS Dhoni's arrival at the crease was the turning point. Facing immense pressure, he played a captain's innings, showing calmness and strategic awareness. He not only scored crucial runs but also rotated the strike and built partnerships. Dhoni's decision to promote himself up the order was a masterstroke, as he took charge and steered India towards victory. His calm demeanor and ability to handle pressure were evident. Dhoni's innings was a testament to his experience and leadership. His strategic brilliance guided India home, making him the hero of the final.

The Scorecard Unveiled: Decoding the Numbers

Let's break down the World Cup 2011 final scorecard, guys! This is where the magic really happened. We'll look at the key performances, the partnerships, and the crucial moments that defined the game. Understanding the scorecard is key to reliving the excitement and appreciating the tactical brilliance of both teams. Let's start with the basics.

Sri Lanka's Batting Card

Upul Tharanga: 2 runs off 6 balls – a quick exit. The opening partnership didn't last long, putting early pressure on the Sri Lankans.
Tillakaratne Dilshan: 33 runs off 49 balls – provided some stability but couldn't convert into a big score. His innings set a good example of how they play.
Kumar Sangakkara (c & wk): 48 runs off 67 balls – a steady innings, but he had to anchor the innings.
Mahela Jayawardene: 103 runs off 88 balls – the star of the show! His century was the backbone of Sri Lanka's innings. Not Out.
Thilan Samaraweera: 21 runs off 22 balls – provided some quick runs in the middle order. He played well.
Chamara Kapugedera: 1 run off 3 balls – a quick dismissal. He was not on the score sheet.
Nuwan Kulasekara: 32 runs off 30 balls – a late flourish, adding valuable runs. Good job.
Thisara Perera: 22 runs off 9 balls – an excellent cameo that helped boost the score. He also contributed.
Lasith Malinga: 0 run off 1 ball – a quick dismissal.
Rangana Herath: 0 run off 0 ball – not out.
Muttiah Muralitharan: 0 run off 1 ball – a quick exit.
Extras: 16 (Wide: 9, Leg byes: 1, Byes: 6) – extra runs conceded.
Total: 274/6 in 50 overs – a competitive score.

India's Batting Card

Virender Sehwag: 0 runs off 2 balls – a shocking start for India. The pressure was on.
Sachin Tendulkar: 18 runs off 14 balls – he was the main player and he was expected to perform.
Gautam Gambhir: 97 runs off 122 balls – a brilliant innings that kept India in the game. He played well.
Virat Kohli: 35 runs off 49 balls – provided some stability and built a partnership with Gambhir.
MS Dhoni (c & wk): 91 runs off 79 balls – the hero! His innings was the game-changer. His performance was incredible.
Yuvraj Singh: 21 runs off 24 balls – finished the job with Dhoni. His performance was key.
Suresh Raina: 0 runs off 1 ball – quick dismissal.
Harbhajan Singh: 2 runs off 3 balls – got the runs in the end.
Zaheer Khan: 0 run off 0 ball – not out.
Munaf Patel: 0 run off 0 ball – not out.
S Sreesanth: 0 run off 0 ball – not out.
Extras: 12 (Wide: 6, Leg byes: 1, Byes: 5) – India’s extras.
Total: 277/4 in 48.2 overs – India won the match!

Key Takeaways: The Significance of the Match

This final was more than just a game; it was a symbol of India's cricketing dominance. The victory was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of the fans. The World Cup 2011 final scorecard tells a story of resilience, strategic brilliance, and the ability to perform under extreme pressure. It remains a historic moment in Indian cricket. This victory had a huge impact on the sport and boosted cricket's popularity. The match's outcome inspired countless young people to take up the sport. It became a source of national pride. The match's legacy continues to motivate fans.

Strategic Masterclass

The match was a strategic masterclass. India's batting order adjustments, especially Dhoni's move up the order, proved crucial. The bowlers' ability to control the run rate in the middle overs was key. Sri Lanka's choice to bat first and Jayawardene's innings showcased tactical acumen. Each team had its own strategies, making the game dynamic and unpredictable. These strategic decisions created an engaging contest. The final highlighted the importance of game plans. India's win was evidence of their calculated approach.

Conclusion: Reliving the Glory

The 2011 Cricket World Cup final remains one of the most memorable matches in cricketing history. The World Cup 2011 final scorecard provides a detailed record of the day's events. The victory for India was a watershed moment, uniting the nation in celebration. The thrill, drama, and nail-biting finishes make it an unforgettable experience. The match highlights the beauty and unpredictability of cricket. The performances of the players, the strategic battles, and the electrifying atmosphere made this final an iconic event. It's a reminder of the power of sport to unite and inspire. This match is etched in the hearts of fans everywhere. It's a timeless classic that continues to resonate.

So, there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the epic 2011 Cricket World Cup final. What are your favorite memories from this match? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let's keep the spirit of cricket alive!