Historic Performance by Kusal Mendis in Galle Test
In a remarkable display of batting prowess, Kusal Mendis achieved a stunning century during the second Test match against New Zealand at Galle. Sri Lanka put on an impressive show in their first innings, amassing a formidable total of 602 runs. Among the highlights of this exceptional performance was Mendis’s century, which has sparked widespread admiration for the strategic decisions made by the Sri Lankan coach, the legendary Sanath Jayasuriya.
A Strategic Move Pays Off
Kusal Mendis, who traditionally occupied the number 3 spot, was strategically promoted to bat at number 7 for this match. This decision was made by coach Jayasuriya during the home series against New Zealand, and it proved to be a masterstroke. Mendis not only adapted to the pressure of the situation but also found a way to flourish, scoring an unbeaten 106 runs off 149 balls, a testament to his adaptability and skill.
A Stellar Performance
His innings was marked by aggressive stroke play, including 3 sixes and 6 fours. Mendis reached his century in style, smashing a six over long-on, which elicited cheers from the crowd. It’s noteworthy that he also showcased his batting prowess in the previous Test, where he contributed a half-century from the same batting position, further affirming his capabilities as a lower-order batsman.
A Long-Awaited Century
This century marked Kusal Mendis’s 10th in Test cricket and, rather significantly, ended a five-year drought for him in the World Test Championship. Mendis had yet to score a century since the inception of the tournament, but his 106 runs in Galle have brought an end to this long wait, reinforcing the idea that perseverance and the right guidance can lead to success on the international stage.
Kamindu Mendis Shines as Well
Adding to the Mendis family accolades, Kamindu Mendis also made headlines by scoring a remarkable century earlier in the same innings. With 5 Test centuries to his name in just 13 innings, Kamindu has become the first Sri Lankan player to achieve this remarkable feat. However, it was surprising that he remained unbeaten on 182 runs as captain Dhananjaya de Silva declared the innings shortly after Kusal’s century. This decision raised eyebrows among fans, as many believed Kamindu could have reached a double century with his current momentum.
Conclusion
Both Kusal and Kamindu Mendis have not only contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s massive score in Galle but have also set personal milestones that will be remembered in the annals of Sri Lankan cricket. Their performances showcase the depth and talent present in the current squad, laying a strong foundation for future successes in international cricket.
