Kamindu Mendis Wins ICC Men's Player of the Month Award for Second Time in 2024

Kamindu Mendis Wins ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award for Second Time in 2024

Sri Lanka’s batting sensation Kamindu Mendis has once again etched his name in cricket history by becoming the first player to win the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award twice in a calendar year. Mendis’ exceptional performances in September, where he amassed 451 runs in four Tests at an astonishing average of 90.20, earned him the prestigious accolade.

Mendis’ month-long brilliance began at The Oval in England, where he played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s consolation victory. His contributions continued in the subsequent series against New Zealand back home, where he played a key role in Sri Lanka’s series triumph. Notably, Mendis scored two centuries during this period, further cementing his status as a rising star in the cricketing world.

The ICC’s statement highlighted Mendis’ remarkable achievements, stating that he “beat out tough competition from Sri Lanka teammate Prabath Jayasuriya and Australia’s Travis Head to claim the monthly award.” Mendis’ consistent performances and ability to deliver under pressure have earned him widespread recognition and admiration.

Mendis expressed his delight at winning the award for the second time this year, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that have fueled his success. “I am honored to be once again chosen as the ICC Men’s Player of the Month,” he said. “This accolade brings me immense happiness and pride, as I believe all the hard work that was put into becoming the player that I am today is starting to pay off and being recognized consistently in the global stage.”

Mendis’ hunger for success is evident in his unwavering determination to achieve even greater heights. “This recognition gives me further strength to continue my good work on the cricketing field and aspire for bigger achievements, thus helping my team win games and bring glory to our country and happiness to our fans,” he added.

During September, Mendis became the first men’s player in history to pass fifty in each of the first eight matches of his Test career. His exceptional run-scoring spree continued as he became the fastest batter in 75 years to reach 1,000 Test runs, matching the legendary Don Bradman’s feat of achieving the milestone in just 13 innings.

Mendis’ most impressive performance of the month came in the second Test against New Zealand, where he scored a dominant 182* in Sri Lanka’s mammoth first-innings total of 602/5 declared. His knock played a crucial role in setting up a convincing victory for his team. However, his 114 in the first innings of the first Test of the same series was arguably even more impressive.

With Sri Lanka in trouble at 88/3, Mendis’ arrival at the crease proved pivotal. His resilient innings, coupled with Angelo Mathews’ contribution, helped Sri Lanka recover and eventually win the match by a narrow margin of 63 runs.

In eight Tests so far, Mendis has amassed an astonishing 1,004 runs at an exceptional average of 91.27. His tally includes five centuries and four fifties in just 13 innings, with his highest score being 182*. Mendis’ consistent performances have not only earned him individual accolades but have also played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s recent successes.

Kamindu Mendis Surpasses 1,000 Test Runs, Leads Sri Lanka to Whitewash

Kamindu Mendis Surpasses 1,000 Test Runs, Leads Sri Lanka to Whitewash

Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis has emerged as a formidable force in Test cricket, surpassing the 1,000-run milestone in just 13 innings. His exceptional batting performance has been instrumental in Sri Lanka’s recent whitewash of New Zealand.

In the second Test in Galle, Mendis showcased his brilliance with an unbeaten 182, guiding Sri Lanka to a massive 602/5. His innings was adorned with 16 fours and four towering sixes, propelling his team to an innings and 154-run victory.

Mendis’s success stems from a positive mindset and technical adjustments. “I’m enjoying scoring runs, especially since Galle is my hometown,” he said. “I think I did well, and credit goes to Kusal and Chandimal as well. I think I had the same mindset and some small changes to the way I batted in England; I made some tweaks while playing spin.”

Mendis’s achievement is remarkable, as he became the first player to score fifty or more in eight consecutive Test matches since making his debut. He also joined the legendary Don Bradman as the third-fastest player to reach 1,000 Test runs in just 13 innings.

Overall, Mendis has amassed 1,004 Test runs in eight matches at an impressive average of 91.27. His contributions have been pivotal in Sri Lanka’s recent resurgence in Test cricket.

As Sri Lanka prepares for upcoming white-ball tours, Mendis is eager to continue his impressive form. “It is a great pleasure to score 1000 runs so quickly, but we have to improve day by day,” he said. “There are upcoming tours, ODIs, and T20s as well. I want to keep doing well.”

Mendis’s exceptional batting skills and unwavering determination make him a valuable asset to the Sri Lankan team. His ability to adapt and excel in different conditions bodes well for Sri Lanka’s future in international cricket.

Sri Lanka's WTC Hopes Soar After Dominant New Zealand Series Win

Sri Lanka’s WTC Hopes Soar After Dominant New Zealand Series Win

Sri Lanka’s remarkable series victory over New Zealand has ignited hopes of a World Test Championship (WTC) final berth next year. Currently ranked third behind Australia and India, Sri Lanka trails Australia by a mere 6.94 percentage points.

Captain Dhananjaya de Silva, who has guided Sri Lanka to their best Test year since 2006, remains cautious. “We’re only looking at it from one match to another,” he said. “If you look too far ahead, you can miss out on what’s immediately important.”

Despite their impressive performance, Sri Lanka faces a challenging tour of South Africa in November-December. However, de Silva believes that focusing on the present will ultimately lead to success.

One of the standout performers in the series was Kamindu Mendis, who narrowly missed out on a double century in the first innings. De Silva’s decision to declare with Mendis 18 runs short raised questions, but the captain explained that it was necessary to give Kusal Mendis an opportunity to score a century.

Mendis supported his captain’s decision, acknowledging that the team’s total was already substantial and that batting in the final hour at Galle is challenging.

Another key contributor was debutant Nishan Peiris, who claimed nine wickets with his offspin. De Silva praised Peiris’ ability to keep the economy rate low, which put pressure on New Zealand.

Sri Lanka’s six Test wins this year have propelled them to fifth in the rankings. De Silva attributes this success to the team’s hard work and improved bench strength. “We have got the right team makeup now,” he said. “And now we also have combinations that can work on any surface, both at home and overseas.”

Kamindu Mendis Matches Bradman's Record, Sri Lanka Dominates New Zealand

Kamindu Mendis Matches Bradman’s Record, Sri Lanka Dominates New Zealand

Kamindu Mendis has etched his name into the annals of cricket history, becoming the joint third-fastest player to reach the coveted milestone of 1,000 test runs. His remarkable achievement came during the second test against New Zealand in Galle, where Sri Lanka tightened its grip on the match.

Mendis’s blistering innings mirrored the legendary Don Bradman, who achieved the feat in 1930 against England at Headingley. Only England’s Herbert Sutcliffe and West Indies great Everton Weekes reached the landmark in fewer innings, doing so in 12 knocks.

In a career that has blossomed rapidly, Mendis notched his fifth century before lunch, his second century in two tests. Later, with audacious flair, he brought up his 1,000th run by stepping down the track to Rachin Ravindra and smashing a towering six straight back over the bowler’s head.

This remarkable achievement made him not only the fastest Sri Lankan but also the quickest Asian to the milestone, surpassing the likes of Sri Lanka great Roy Dias (23 innings) and India’s Vinod Kambli (14).

The crowd’s celebrations were bittersweet, however, as Sri Lanka declared before Mendis could reach his maiden double century. He was unbeaten on 182 off 250 balls, an innings laced with 16 boundaries and four massive sixes.

“Kamindu Mendis has been sensational for us this year,” said teammate Angelo Mathews. “He is doing stuff that none of us were able to do early in our careers. He is very matured, knows his game and plays very positively.”

Mendis found strong support from Kusal Mendis, who shrugged off recent struggles to post an undefeated 106, his 10th test century. Demoted to No. 7 in the order after disappointing performances, Kusal responded with a measured innings, combining with Kamindu for an unbroken 200-run partnership, the highest sixth-wicket stand for Sri Lanka against New Zealand on home soil. This partnership also set a record as the highest sixth-wicket stand in Galle, by any team, further cementing Sri Lanka’s dominance.

Earlier in the day, the hosts lost Mathews (88) and skipper Dhananjaya de Silva (44) in the morning session, but Kamindu’s relentless march, paired with Kusal’s defiance, ensured Sri Lanka remained firmly in the driver’s seat, with thoughts of a 2-0 series sweep looming large.

New Zealand, meanwhile, missed crucial chances again to rein in Sri Lanka. Daryl Mitchell dropped Kamindu on 26 and Tom Blundell fluffing a straightforward stumping when he was on 113. The misery continued for the Kiwis when Sri Lanka struck early in their innings. Asitha Fernando set the tone, dismissing Tom Latham in the very first over with a sharp catch at gully. Prabath Jayasuriya then removed the other opener Devon Conway, snapped up at slip by De Silva on 9.

“It’s a tough ask for us now,” said New Zealand’s Luke Ronchi. “The important thing is to play each ball, build partnerships and see through sessions. We have done it before in tough conditions. We need to take the game as deep as possible.”

Sri Lanka Extend Dominance, Mendis Nears Century at Lunch

Sri Lanka Extend Dominance, Mendis Nears Century at Lunch

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.

Kamindu Mendis Breaks World Record with Eight Consecutive Test Fifties

Kamindu Mendis Breaks World Record with Eight Consecutive Test Fifties

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.

Sri Lanka's Fast Bowlers Triumph in Challenging Conditions at The Oval

Sri Lanka’s Fast Bowlers Triumph in Challenging Conditions at The Oval

Sri Lanka’s historic victory at The Oval in 2024 marked a significant milestone in their cricketing journey. While their 1998 triumph at the same venue remains etched in memory, the conditions faced by the 2024 team were far more challenging.

Sanath Jayasuriya, a key figure in the 1998 victory, hailed the fast bowlers for their exceptional performance. Unlike the dry and sunny conditions of 1998, the 2024 match was played on a green-tinged track under cold and cloudy skies.

“These guys played in different conditions altogether,” Jayasuriya said. “It was tough conditions, with the grass, the weather, and everything was cloudy and cold. All credit to these boys.”

Sri Lanka’s quartet of quicks, Asitha Fernando, Milan Rathnayake, Vishwa Fernando, and Lahiru Kumara, shared 18 wickets between them. Kumara’s aggressive approach and Fernando’s consistency were particularly noteworthy.

“It’s the first time we went with four fast bowlers, and we went with that because of the conditions here, and all of them went beyond 100% in their efforts,” Jayasuriya said.

The series also witnessed the emergence of young talents like Kamindu Mendis and Pathum Nissanka. Mendis, batting at No. 7 and 8, scored 267 runs, including a century. Nissanka’s aggressive batting, particularly his 127 not out in the second innings, played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s chase.

“Pathum couldn’t play Tests for a few years because of injuries, but he’s been doing well in T20s and one-dayers,” Jayasuriya said. “He played his natural game here, and I love to see him doing that.”

Rathnayake, who made his debut in the first Test, impressed with both his bowling and batting. He took 10 wickets and scored 72 and 43 down the order.

“Milan played Sri Lanka A cricket and we knew that he was a good bowler and could bat well,” Jayasuriya said. “But the world didn’t know he could bat. He batted really well and bowled really well right through this Test series.”

Sri Lanka’s victory at The Oval in 2024 showcased the resilience and determination of their team. The fast bowlers’ exceptional performance, coupled with the emergence of young talents, bodes well for the future of Sri Lankan cricket.

Sri Lanka Falter at Lord's, England Dominate with Seam Attack

Sri Lanka Falter at Lord’s, England Dominate with Seam Attack

Sri Lanka’s Batting Woes Continue as England Dominate at Lord’s

On the second day of the second Test at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, Sri Lanka’s batting woes continued as they fell well short of England’s imposing first innings total. The hosts, led by a commanding performance from their seam attack, set a daunting target of 427 for the visitors.

Sri Lanka’s response was lackluster, with only Kamindu Mendis providing any significant resistance. The left-handed batsman, who carried his strong form from the first Test, compiled a well-crafted 74, showcasing his ability to counter England’s attack. However, he lacked support from his teammates, with no other batsman surpassing 23 runs.

England’s seam attack shared the wickets evenly, highlighting their collective strength and depth. Matthew Potts, known for his accuracy and movement, proved economical, taking 2-19 in 11 overs. Chris Woakes, a seasoned campaigner, also claimed 2-21, utilizing his experience and variations to keep the Sri Lankan batsmen in check.

Despite the significant lead and ample time remaining in the day, England captain Ollie Pope, standing in for the injured Ben Stokes, chose not to enforce the follow-on. This decision suggests a strategic approach, potentially prioritizing player management and long-term goals over immediate gains.

Sri Lanka’s batting collapse has put them in a precarious position, with England firmly in control of the match. The visitors will need to produce a much-improved performance in their second innings if they hope to salvage a draw or even an unlikely victory.

Kamindu Mendis: Calm and Basics Fuel Remarkable Test Batting Average

Kamindu Mendis: Calm and Basics Fuel Remarkable Test Batting Average

Kamindu Mendis’ remarkable batting average of 92.16 in Test cricket, the second-highest among players with over 500 runs, is a testament to his unwavering focus on the fundamentals. The Sri Lankan batsman, who made his debut two years ago, credits his success to a simple mantra: “Do basic things, and try to keep calm.”

Despite making a promising debut with a half-century, Mendis had to wait for his next opportunity. However, he seized it with both hands, scoring twin centuries against Bangladesh earlier this year. “I knew the batting was packed, but I tried to do as best as I could in the chance that I had,” he said.

Mendis’ absence from the team during his two-year hiatus was not a setback but an opportunity for growth. “Even though I didn’t get to play, I was in the squad and travelling with the team, pretty much every tour,” he said. “Going on so many tours with experienced players on those tours also helped me play well in my first few innings.”

In the recent Test against England in Manchester, Mendis’ first-innings dismissal for 12 was followed by a second-innings century. He forged crucial partnerships with Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal, who played through a finger injury. “I had a lot of support from the others when I went to bat, both Angie aiya and Chandi aiya,” he said. “Their experience really helped me.”

Mendis’ batting philosophy is simple: “I do basic things, and try to keep calm in the middle.” He dismisses questions about his impressive average, emphasizing his commitment to contributing to the team’s success. “That’s really my only goal: to give as much to my team as possible, whether on the batting front, bowling front, or via fielding.”

For Mendis, playing a Test at Lord’s is a dream come true. “From when I was little, I had a dream to play a Test at Lord’s,” he said. “It’s not just my dream, I think every player has that target. I’ve been able to get there. If we can win this match, it’ll be even more valuable to us.”

Ambidextrous Spinner Kamindu Mendis Raises Questions with Unique Bowling Style

Ambidextrous Spinner Kamindu Mendis Raises Questions with Unique Bowling Style

Sri Lanka’s Kamindu Mendis has become the talk of the cricketing world after his ambidextrous bowling display in the first T20I against India. The spinner left experts and fans alike in awe as he switched between bowling with his left and right arms during the same over.

Mendis’s unique ability has raised questions about the legality of such a bowling style. According to the International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations, a bowler must inform the umpire of their intended bowling style (right-handed or left-handed) before the start of the over. Any change in bowling style during the over must also be communicated to the umpire.

In Mendis’s case, he informed the umpire of his intention to bowl left-handed against Suryakumar Yadav. However, when facing Rishabh Pant, he switched to bowling with his right arm without informing the umpire. This led to some confusion and debate about whether Mendis had violated the rules.

The ICC regulations state that a bowler who fails to notify the umpire of a change in bowling style will be called for a no-ball. However, it is unclear whether this rule applies to a bowler who switches between bowling with both hands during the same over.

The incident has sparked a discussion about the need for clearer regulations regarding ambidextrous bowling. Some experts believe that such a bowling style could give bowlers an unfair advantage, while others argue that it is a legitimate skill that should be allowed.

Meanwhile, in the match itself, India’s top-order batsmen put on a dominant display to post a commanding 213 for 7. Suryakumar Yadav, in his first match as permanent skipper of India’s T20 team, led the charge with a sparkling 58 off 26 balls. Young stars Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill also made significant contributions with 41 and 34 runs, respectively.

Rishabh Pant struggled initially but ended just one short of a half-century with some audacious shots. Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled to contain India’s aggressive batting, with only Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana managing to pick up two wickets each.

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