Kumar Sangakkara Gets Guard of Honour From Virat Kohli's Team India

Kumar Sangakkara got a rousing reception on Friday when he walked out to bat in what is his farewell Test match. While captain Virat Kohli led Indian players in giving a guard of honour to the Sri Lankan legend, passionate supporters cheered on from the stands of Colombo's P. Sara Oval. (2nd Test, Day 2 Blog | Scorecard)

A renowned ambassador of the gentleman's game, Sangakkara is playing his 134th and final Test match. After India scored 393 in the first innings on Friday, Umesh Yadav struck off the first delivery of the second over to send back Dimuth Karunaratne (1). For a change though, Sri Lankan fans were celebrating the wicket as it signaled the arrival of their hero. The entire ground erupted as the 37-year-old made his way to the middle. (Related: Wife Yehali reveals secrets about Kumar Sangakkara)

Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews had said before the start of the Test that while it is an emotional Test for him and fellow players, Sangakkara has been practising hard to hit big in his final match for the country. (Also read: Sangakkara felicitated by BCCI | Clarke and Sangakkara - tale of two greats sailing towards sunset)

This professional approach of the cricketer was evident from the fact that Sangakkara quickly took guard and was a pillar of concentration - as always - even as the celebrating fans took their time to settle down again. The No. 3 batsman would go on to score 32 - each run being applauded with fervour. Arvinda de Silva may have the  highest score by a Sri Lankan in his farewell Test with 206 against Bangladesh in 2002.  With three more days of cricket in the ongoing Test left after Friday's play, the party though is not expected to halt any time soon as Sangakkara will look to end on a high in the second innings.