Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the first batsman to score fifty or more in eight consecutive Test matches. This remarkable feat was achieved during the second Test against New Zealand at Galle International Stadium.
Mendis, a stylish left-hander, has been in scintillating form throughout the series. Coming in at number five, he once again displayed his exceptional batting acumen, notching up his fourth half-century in Test cricket. His latest knock of 51* helped Sri Lanka post a formidable total of 306 for three at the end of day one.
Mendis’ milestone came as Sri Lanka recovered from a shaky start in their first innings. After captain Dhananjaya de Silva won the toss and chose to bowl, Sri Lanka’s early innings suffered a setback with Pathum Nissanka dismissed cheaply. However, veteran campaigners Dimuth Karunaratne and Dinesh Chandimal steadied the innings with a crucial 122-run partnership for the second wicket.
Karunaratne’s unfortunate run out provided New Zealand with a breakthrough, but Chandimal continued his fine form to bring up a century before being dismissed. It was Kamindu Mendis’ arrival that solidified Sri Lanka’s position. Alongside Angelo Mathews, Mendis guided the team past the 300-mark, scoring a sublime 51* by the end of day one.
Mendis’ incredible consistency has been a defining feature of his game, starting with his fifty against Australia in Galle in 2022, followed by awe-inspiring scores against Bangladesh and England earlier this year. His latest half-century against New Zealand not only helped Sri Lanka post a formidable total but also saw him break a world record that stood untouched for years.
Mendis’ remarkable run is a clear sign of his growing stature in world cricket, making him one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable middle-order batsmen. His ability to score consistently in different conditions and against various oppositions highlights his exceptional talent and determination.
