Ranking Lasith Malinga’s top 3 performances in T20I Cricket

As Lasith Malinga celebrates his 41st birthday, it’s a fitting time to reflect on some of his most iconic performances in T20I cricket. Known for his unorthodox bowling style and deadly yorkers, Malinga left an indelible mark on the game. Here, we rank his top three performances, showcasing why he remains one of the greatest fast bowlers in limited-overs cricket.

3. Dominance Against UAE – Asia Cup 2016

In an Asia Cup encounter on February 25, 2016, at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, Malinga led Sri Lanka to a comfortable victory against the United Arab Emirates with a scintillating bowling performance. Defending a modest total of 129, Malinga struck twice in the very first over, immediately putting the UAE on the back foot. 

His relentless pace and accuracy left the UAE batsmen with no answers as they crumbled under pressure. Malinga finished with figures of 4/26, ensuring that the minnows never recovered and missed out on causing an upset.

2. The Hat-Trick Heroics – Sri Lanka vs New Zealand 2019

On September 6, 2019, Malinga once again etched his name in the history books, this time against New Zealand at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Leading the Sri Lankan side, Malinga became the first bowler to claim 100 wickets in T20I cricket. However, he wasn’t done yet. 

Malinga went on to dismantle New Zealand’s top order, taking four wickets in four consecutive deliveries, completing an extraordinary hat-trick. His final figures of 5/6 were not only remarkable but also showcased his unmatched skill in the shortest format of the game. This performance was historic, as it marked Malinga’s second hat-trick in T20Is.

1. Masterclass Against England – World T20 2012

On October 1, 2012, during the ICC World T20 at Pallekele, Malinga delivered a devastating spell against England, one of the most formidable teams at the time. Defending a target of 170, Malinga single-handedly dismantled the English top order. 

In the third over of England’s innings, he removed key players Luke Wright, Jonny Bairstow, and Alex Hales, effectively derailing England’s chase. His figures of 5/31 not only sealed the match for Sri Lanka but also knocked England out of the tournament. This victory ensured Sri Lanka’s progression to the semi-finals, along with the West Indies. 

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