In shocking developments, former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara, on Thursday, was asked to record a statement, following initiation of alleged fixing probe during 2011 World Cup finals. One of the local newspapers, Daily Mirror, confirmed the report.
After a controversial toss, the Sangakkara led team opted to bat first and could not defend their total in front of hosts India.
The then Sri Lankan Sports Minister, of-late, has been very vocal about the need for an investigation for the final which the Islanders lost by six wickets.
In Mahindananda Aluthgamage words, on the eve of the game, the Lankan cricket team made four changes to the lineup without addressing the authorities.
Earlier, the investigators also summoned Aravinda de Silva to record his statements, who was the chief selector, at that time.
“I tell you today that we sold the 2011 World Cup final. Even when I was sports minister I believed this. In 2011, we were to win, but we sold the match. I feel I can talk about it now. I am not connecting players, but some sections were involved,” Aluthgamage told AFP.
Former Lankan great, and chief companion of Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardena, helped set up the Lions’ total with his unbeaten knock of 103.
Mahela came in support of Sangakkara on Twitter by saying, “Is the elections around the corner Looks like the circus has started Names and evidence?”
To which Aluthgamage replied by saying, “Mahela has said that the circus has started. I don’t understand why Sanga and Mahela are making a big deal about this. I am not referring to any of our players.”
Later, Jayawadena lashed back at the former minister with his tweet, “When someone accuses that we sold the 2011 WC naturally it’s a big deal because we don’t know how one could fix a match and not be part of the playing 11? Hopefully, we will get enlightened after 9 years…”
