From Lord's to The Rec: Sangakkara's Cricket Dream in Dorset

Shillingstone, a sleepy village nestled on the River Stour in north Dorset, has become an unlikely stage for a cricketing legend. This summer, the local cricket team has witnessed a familiar face emerge from retirement, a face synonymous with the highest levels of the game: Kumar Sangakkara.

While his new team-mates juggle their cricketing passion with day jobs as delivery drivers, welders, and hot-tub salesmen, Sangakkara boasts a career spanning 15 years, cementing his place as one of the sport's greats. The elegant Sri Lankan left-hander dominated international cricket, toppling the fiercest bowlers and accumulating the second-highest number of runs in international history. He racked up 38 Test centuries across the globe, from Lahore to the hallowed turf of Lord's.

Now, however, Sangakkara finds himself playing in the third division of the Dorset Cricket League, a far cry from the international spotlight. His home ground is the council-owned "Rec," shared with the local football and tennis clubs, a modest setting compared to the iconic stadiums he once graced. The crowds, too, are vastly different, with a handful of locals, supplemented by eager fans who've travelled to witness the legend in action.

"It's just to do with my friends," Sangakkara explained to Mail Sport. "I have a few friends who live near Shillingstone, where my children go to school. Whenever they were short of players, they'd say, 'You've got to come and play!' and I said yes."

He's squeezed in seven games, balancing his time with coaching duties in the IPL and broadcasting commitments. Despite his retirement in 2015 and his time as MCC president, Sangakkara remains one of the most sought-after figures in the game. Yet, his enthusiasm for his new experience in Dorset is unmistakable.

"It's not about the cricket, it's mostly about the fellowship," he said. "It's wonderful to see how the game is embraced in the UK at all ages and levels. You have 18-year-olds playing alongside 50-year-olds, and they all share this incredible connection with the game."

His performances have certainly been impressive, with 359 runs at an average of over 51. He even achieved a century, a 95-ball 126 against Abbotsbury, demonstrating his remarkable talent. While he often batted at number three for Sri Lanka, Sangakkara typically occupies number five for Shillingstone – a testament to the humility of a true champion. "I'm protected against the new ball," he jokes.

He's even added another string to his bow, taking 15 wickets with his economical off-spin. Sangakkara's contribution goes beyond his own performances, however. He appreciates the inclusive spirit of village cricket.

"They are fighting for promotion and they are competitive in their approach, of course they want to win," he said. "But the way they go about it is the beauty of it. It's brilliant to see that they think about the good of the game. They think about how they can make it fun for everyone involved, hosting the opposition and ensuring they have a good experience. They think about the teas – do we put on a barbecue at the end? All of it to create a fun atmosphere for everyone."

His infectious enthusiasm has been evident both on and off the field. He's been a hit with the locals, and even the opposition has been charmed by the presence of the cricketing great. "It's been an honour and a privilege," said Chris Cole, Shillingstone's captain. "We let him decide who goes where on the field – he has a much better understanding of the game than anyone in our team!"

Even off the field, Sangakkara has embraced the village spirit, helping to prepare the pitch. Shillingstone has benefited from his presence, achieving promotion and now challenging for the league title. The club is even starting a second men's team and restarting their junior programme for 2025.

But one question lingers: how does Sangakkara rate the teas at Shillingstone? "Pretty good actually! Good cakes, good pastries, good sausage rolls, tea and coffee, the occasional burger and hot dog. I think Shillingstone ranks about the best."

Sangakkara's journey from the international stage to the village green is a testament to his love for the game and his appreciation for its social fabric. As Sri Lanka prepares to face England in a three-Test series, Sangakkara's experience in Dorset offers a unique perspective on the beauty and camaraderie of cricket, regardless of the level of competition.