Sri Lanka’s dominance continued unabated on day two of the Test against New Zealand, as they extended their first innings total to 402 for 5 at lunch. Despite the overcast conditions and increased turn for the spinners, the hosts remained in control, thanks to an unbeaten 93 from Kamindu Mendis.
The session began with Angelo Mathews adding 10 runs to his overnight tally before falling to Glenn Phillips’ nagging line and length. Phillips struck again just before lunch, dismissing Dhananjaya de Silva for 44. However, Mendis’ presence at the crease ensured that Sri Lanka maintained their momentum.
Mendis, who became the first batter to score fifty-plus in each of his first eight Tests, continued his impressive form. He struck boundaries off Will O’Rourke and Mitchell Santner, showcasing his ability to rotate the strike and keep the scoreboard ticking.
De Silva, who had launched Phillips for a six early in his innings, was eventually undone by the off-spinner’s variations. Looking to sweep, he top-edged the ball, which was well caught by Tom Blundell.
Despite the late wicket, Sri Lanka remained in a strong position. Mendis, who has yet to be dismissed in the match, is closing in on a fifth Test century. His partnership with de Silva was the fifth fifty-plus stand of the innings, highlighting the depth of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup.
New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Phillips, have struggled to contain the Sri Lankan batsmen. Phillips has taken three wickets, but his economy rate of 6.50 is a testament to the ease with which the hosts have scored runs.
