10 greatest knocks by captains in World Cup history

#9 115* - Mahela Jayawardene v New Zealand, 2007

The talented right-hander came up with a century in the 2007 WC semi-final after a couple of wickets from James Franklin meant Sri Lanka had to come up with something special. Joining opener Upul Tharanga (73) at the crease, Jayawardene batted with astute purpose to set a winning total of 289 at Kingston, Jamaica.

It was an innings of precise planning as he only managed 17 from his first 47 deliveries. As the innings progressed, the Sri Lankan legend opened up to blast 75 off the last 35 balls he faced including 10 fours and 3 sixes. He finished on 115* (109) as even Stephen Fleming, the opposition captain walked up to congratulate his counterpart. In reply, New Zealand were bundled out for 208 with Muttiah Muralitharan capturing 4/31.

However, the real star of the game was undoubtedly Jayawardene, as the veteran was deservingly awarded the Man of the Match for one of the finest knocks in the history of World Cup.