Kamindu Mendis showcased his remarkable talent for Sri Lanka during the second Test against New Zealand, hitting his fifth hundred in just 13 innings – a testament to his extraordinary start in Test cricket.

Stellar performance in Galle by Kamindu Mendis

The milestone was achieved on Day 2 of the match at the Galle International Stadium, where Kamindu’s performance propelled Sri Lanka past the 400-run mark. Mendis reached his century in 147 balls, marking his second ton of the series and his third fifty-plus score in as many innings. His innings included a significant partnership with Angelo Mathews, as the duo amassed a 100-run stand for the fourth wicket in 125 balls during the first session of the second day. This performance underscored Kamindu’s pivotal role in stabilizing the Sri Lankan innings.

Contributions from Teammates

Earlier, Dimuth Karunaratne provided a solid start with 46 runs before being run out. Dinesh Chandimal played a pivotal role, scoring 116 off 208 balls, and showcasing resilience at the crease. Mathews contributed significantly with 88 runs, anchoring the innings effectively. Dhananjaya de Silva added 44 runs, while Kamindu remained unbeaten on 113, accelerating the scoring towards the end. Sri Lanka demonstrated depth in batting and so far reached 445/5, capitalizing on the New Zealand bowling attack, particularly Glenn Phillips, who took three wickets.

Historic achievements for Sri Lanka

Mendis’ fifth century not only highlights his rapid ascent in Test cricket but also places him among the legends of the game. He is now joint-third fastest to five Test hundreds from debut, equaling the likes of Don Bradman and George Headley, both achieving the feat in 13 innings. Only Everton Weekes (10 innings), Herbert Sutcliffe (12 innings) and Robert Harvey (12 innings) have reached this m?ilestone quicker.

Additionally, Kamindu has set a new Asian record, eclipsing Pakistan’s Fawad Alam, who reached five centuries in 22 innings, while also surpassing Aravinda de Silva‘s Sri Lankan record of five hundreds in 38 innings. With his performances this year, Kamindu has overtaken Joe Root for the most Test hundreds, with five to his na??me.

Also WATCH: Dimuth Karunaratne loses cool at Dinesh Chandimal after his unfortunate run out | SL?? vs NZ, 2nd Test

On track for further milestones

Kamindu is also on the brink of becoming the fastest Asian to reach 1,000 Test runs, having already crossed the 900-run mark in just 13 innings. Vinod Kambli currently holds the record for the quickest Asian to 1,000 runs, achieving the milestone in 14 innings. Kamindu’s stellar performance against New Zealand not only cements his status as a rising star but also raises expectations for his future contributions to Sri Lankan cricket.

Here’s how Fans reacted:

Kamindu Mendis has more hundreds in 2024 than Joe Root 😌 #SLvNZ

— Estelle Vasudevan (@Estelle_Vasude1) September 27, 2024

Kamindu Mendis Bhau!

What a start to his Test career! Another ton, just like that!#SLvNZ

— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) September 27, 2024

Kamindu Mendis is seriously the next BIG t?hing in Sri Lankan cricket.

Scoring his 5th Hundr??ed? in just 13th innings is unbelievable.

— Aditya Saha (@Adityakrsaha) September 27, 2024

Kami??ndu Mendis is on one of the great batting streaks in test history. 5th hundred in 8 tests!

— Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) September 27, 2024

Another century by Kamindu Mendis. A 5th hundred in 13 innings, with 4 half-centuries. This guy is operating on a different plane. #nzvsl pic.twitter.com/sUXZxlUa3G

— Ajay Kaul (@ajaykaul10) September 27, 2024

This guy from Srilanka, Kamindu Mendis?? has been on?? a roll for a few weeks now. Another century. 5th test hundred in just 8 games(13innings). Brilliant start to his test career this.

— Bhawana (@cricbhawana) September 27, 2024

5️⃣th Test hundred for Kamindu Mendis 🏏👏#cricket #SLvsNZ #KaminduMendis #SriLankaCricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/HqwQpBArsM

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) September 27, 2024

Kamindu 'Don' Mendis. He ticks off another Test ton.

13 Test innings
4 fifties
5* centuries

A magnificent start to his Test career. 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/0jd8rHEWii

— Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) September 27, 2024

RIDICULOUS. Yet another Test century for Kamindu Mendis, his FIFTH in 13 innings to start his career!#SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/dwhCPGSC7x

— CricBlog �?(@cric_blog) September 27, 2024

I'm looking forward to see how far Kamindu Mendis can go far in test cricket.Can he sustain this level of form in 50 tests? The way he batted in England on his 1st tour is a sign that he can.He will have his challenges along the way but the future is bright for him & SL cricket.

— Troll cricket unlimitedd (@TUnlimitedd) September 27, 2024

Also READ: Fans react as Dinesh Cha?ndimal hits a stunning century in the 2nd Test against New Zealand

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In a dramatic turn of events on Day 1 of the second Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand at the Galle International Stadium, Sri Lankan opener Dimuth Karunaratne was left fuming after his unfortunate run-out. The mix-up with his batting partner, Dinesh Chandimal, led to a rare moment of frustration for the usually composed Karuna??ratne, and the incident bec?ame one of the key talking points of the day.

Dimuth Karunaratne’s frustrating run-out incident

Sri Lanka, after winning the toss and electing to bat on a typically spin-friendly Galle track, were progressing steadily when the disaster struck in the 39th over. At that stage, Karunaratne, who had been playing a patient inn?ings, was looking well-set on 46 off 109 balls, having hit four bounda?ries. Alongside Chandimal, he had built a solid partnership and was steering Sri Lanka toward a strong position.

However, on the very first ball of the 39th over, bowled by Mitchell Santner, a moment of confusion unfolded between the two experienced batters. Santner delivered a ball on the leg side, which Karunaratne flicked towards mid-wicket. Glenn Phillips, fielding at mid-wicket, made a brilliant diving stop to cut off?? what appeared to be a certain single. Karunaratne, reacting immediately, set off for a run, but Chandimal hesitated.

By the time the fielder had retrieved the ball, Karunaratne had almost reached Chandimal at the non-striker’s end, leaving no way to return to his crease. The quick-thinking Phillips fired the ball towards short-leg, where Tom Latham, though initially unsure, collected it and underarmed a direct hit at the stumps, catching Karunaratne well short. Despite a valiant attempt to make his ground, Karunaratne had no chance.

Also READ: Sri Lanka names a strong 15-member squad for Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in UAE

As the New Zealand team celebrated an unexpected wicket, Karunaratne’s frustration boiled over. He exchanged words with Chandimal before storming off the field, clearly upset by the miscommunicatio??n that had cost him his wicket. Chandimal, on the other hand, appeared apologetic, knowing that the mistake had broken a 122-run partnership.

Here’s the video:

Costly mix-up 🫣@IamDimuth departs as Sri Lanka's 1️⃣2️⃣2️⃣-run stand is broken �?a href="//twitter.com/hashtag/SonySportsNetwork?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" data-wpel-link="exclude">#SonySportsNetwork #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/5UmAsoJQMs

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 26, 2024

The run-out was a significant blow for Sri Lanka, who were 139/2 at that point. Karunar??atne’s departure ended what had been a promising partnership with ?Chandimal. Despite the setback, Chandimal went on to make amends by scoring his 16th Test century, which happens to be his first against New Zealand.

At stumps on Day 1, Sri Lanka stood at 306/3, with New Zealand managing to pick up only three wickets – Karunaratne’s run-out and the dismissals Pathum Nissanka (1 off 3) and Chandimal. After Chandimal’s dismissal, Angelo Mathews (78 not out) and Kamindu Mendis (51 not out) made New Zealand bowlers toiled hard on the flat Galle surface.

Also READ: Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan opens ??up about his ?T20I and Test retirement

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In a strategic move, Sri Lanka have won the toss and chose to bat first in the 2nd Test against New Zealand. This match follows their recent victory in the first Test held in Galle, where they triumphed by a margin of 63 runs.

Lineup changes for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka have made two significant changes to their lineup for the second Test. Milan Rathnayake, an all-rounder, has been brought in to replace Lahiru Kumara, a fast bowler who has been an integral part of the bowling attack. Additionally, Nishan Peiris will take over from Ramesh Mendis, aiming to bolster the team’s performance.

Reason behind donning black armbands

On Day 1 of the match, the New Zealand players wore black armbands to pay tribute to Ian Taylor, who recently passed away. Taylor had a distinguished career in various roles within New Zealand Cricket (NZC), serving as a board director, manager of the Kiwi men’s team, and chair of Cricket Wellington. The Blackcaps expressed their condolences in a statement: “The Test team is wearing black armbands on Day 1 of the 2nd Test in Galle to honor the passing of former BLACKCAPS manager, NZC director & Cricket Wellington chair Ian Taylor #SLvNZ.” This gesture highlights the respect and gratitude the cricket community ?holds for Taylor’s contributions.

The Test team is wearing black arm-bands on day 1 of the 2nd Test in Galle to honour the passing of former BLACKCAPS manager, NZC director & Cricket Wellington chair Ian Taylor #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/LX2wfyabTZ

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 26, 2024

Also READ: Josh Hazlewood picks an Indian batter he ??finds tough to bowl to

Strong start for Sri Lanka in 2nd Test Against New Zealand

Meanwhile, Dimuth Karunaratne and Dinesh Chandimal lead Sri Lanka’s innings as they opted to bat first. Sri Lanka have scored 82/1 wicket after 25 overs, with Karunaratne contributing 30 runs off 57 balls and Chandimal scoring 49 runs off 66 balls, featuring 9 fours. The duo has forged a strong partnership, accumulating 80 runs in 24 overs at a run rate of 3.34. New Zealand’s bowlers, Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner, have struggled to take wickets, with Patel conceding 30 runs in 10 overs and Santner only 7 runs in 6 overs. The current run rate stands at 3.80, with 65 overs remaining in the innings. Sri Lanka maintains all t?hree reviews, while New Zealand also have three reviews available.

Also READ: BGT 2024-25: Dinesh Karthik drops a bold p??rediction for the India-Australia Test series

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Sri Lanka and New Zealand are all set to lock horns in the second and final Test of their series, starting on September 26 at the iconic Galle International Stadium. After a thrilling contest in the first Test, the hosts, Sri Lanka, secured a narrow 63-run victory, showcasing their resilience i?n ??a hard-fought match.

Despite a determined effort from New Zealan??d, the Sri Lankan side managed to come out on top, taking the lead in the series. The Islanders will now be aiming for a repeat performance as they look to clinch the series with a win in Galle.

For the Black Caps, the focus will be on bouncing back and leveling the series. With a strong squad and valuable lessons from the first Test,? New Zealand will hope to regroup and put up a solid fight to avoid a series defeat. The second Test promises to deliver another intense battle as bot?h sides push for glory in the concluding match of the series.

SL vs NZ: Head to Head Record in Tests:

Matches played: 39 | Sri Lanka won: 10 |?? New Zealand won: 18 | Draw:?? 11

Test Stats and Records at Galle International Stadium:

• Matches played: 45
• Matches won batting first: 24
• Matches won bowling first: 15
• Average 1st innings scores: 364
• Average 2nd innings scores: 314
• Average 3rd innings scores: 236
• Average 4th innings scores: 159
• Highest total recorded: 704/3 (151 Ov) by Sri Lanka vs Ireland
• Lowest total recorded: 73/10 (28.5 Ov) by South Africa vs Sri Lanka

SL vs NZ: Galle International Stadium Pitch Report:

The Galle International Stadium, nestled against the scenic backdrop of the historic Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean, is renowned for being a haven for spin bowlers, especially as the ma??tch wears on. In the first two days, fast bowlers can take advantage of some seam movement and swing, thanks to the moisture and humidity in the air. However, this assistance dimi??nishes quickly as the pitch begins to break down. From Day 3 onward, spinners take control, with the dry surface providing significant turn, bounce, and unpredictable variations, making it increasingly challenging for batters to navigate.

Also READ: SL vs NZ 2024, 2nd Test: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch ??Report ?| Sri Lanka vs New Zealand

SL vs NZ: Galle Weather Forecast:

The weather forecast for Galle over the next five days points to a potentially rain-affected Test match. On Day 1, September 26, afternoon showers are expected with a high of 30°C, and winds from the WNW at 15 to 25 km/h, with a 50% chance of rain. Day 2 is foreca??st to be partly cloudy with a high of 30°C and similar wind conditions. On Day 3, afternoon thunderstorms are likely, with a high of 30°C, winds from the WNW at 10 to 15 km/h, and a 70% chance of rain. Day 4 will see thunderstorms throughout, with a high of 30°C, winds from the ESE at 10 to 15 km/h, and another 70% chance of rain. Day 5 brings more thunderstorms, with a high of 29°C, winds from the SE at 10 to 15 km/h, and a 70% chance of rain.

SL vs NZ 2024: Playing XI of both teams

Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (w?k), Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Ra??mesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara

New Zealand: Tom Latham, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Tom Blundell (wk), Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee (c), Matt Henr??y, Ajaz Patel, Ben Sears

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs New ?Zealand 2024, Test series �?Date, Match Time, Squads, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

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Sri Lanka are set to face New Zealand in the second and final Test of their two-match series from September 26 to 30. The match will take place at the Galle International Stadium, which was als?o the venue for the series opener.

Following a 63-run win in the first Test, the hosts will be aiming to complete a series sweep. Meanwhile, the Black Caps will be looking to end their Sri L?anka tour on a winning note before heading to India for a three-match Test series.

SL vs NZ 2024: 2nd Test

• Date and Time: September 26-30: 10:00 am IST/ 04:30 am GMT/ 10:00 am local
• Venue: Galle International Stadium, Galle

Galle International Stadium Pitch Report

The Galle International Stadium, beautifully situated between the historic Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean, is a paradise for spinners. The pitch, known for its testing conditions, initially offers some help to fast bowlers over the first two days due to the moisture and humidity in the air. However, this early movement quickly fades as the surface dries out. By Day 3, spinners dominate, exploiting the pitch’s sharp turn, bounce, and increasingly variable bounce, turning batting into a challenging endeavour.

SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicketkeeper: Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Mendis
• Batters: Kane Williamsom, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell
• All-rounders: Dhananjaya de Silva, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Kamindu Mendis
• Bowlers: Ajaz Patel, Prabath Jayasuriya

SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

• Choice 1: Prabath Jayasuriya (c), Rachin Ravindra (vc)
• Choice 2: Kamindu Mendis (c), Tom Latham (vc)

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand 2024, Test series – Date, Match Time, Squads, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

SL vs NZ Dream11 Prediction Backups:

Angelo Mathews, Pathum Nissanka, William O’Rourke, Tim Southee

SL vs NZ Dream11 Team for today’s match (September 26, 04:30 am GMT):

Squads:

Sri Lanka: Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Oshada Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Nishan Peiris, Lahiru Kumara, Prabath Jayasuriya, Rames??h Mendis, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake

New Zealand: Tim Southee (c), Glenn Phillips, Ka??ne Williamson, Will Young, Michael Bracewell, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Tom Latham, Ma?tt Henry, William O’Rourke, Ajaz Patel, Ben Sears

Also READ: Vishwa Fernando gets ruled out of the 2nd Test again??st New Zealand; replacement announced

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Prabath Jayasuriya played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka‘s 63-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test at Galle on Monday (September 23). His left-arm spin proved to be the decisive factor, as he took nine wickets across both innings, including ??a crucial five-wicket haul in the second innings. Jayasuriya’s performance, particularly on the final day, sealed the win for Sri Lanka, wrapping up New Zealand’s second innings for 211, leaving them short of the 275-run target.

The final day at Galle: Breaking New Zealand’s resistance

New Zealand resumed the Day 5 needing just 68 runs to win with two wickets in hand. However, Jayasuriya quickly crushed their hopes. His first major breakthrough came when he trapped the overnight batter, Rachin Ravindra, leg-before-wicket for 92. Ravindra, who had kept New Zealand alive with a resilient knock on Day 4, was outdone by Jayasuriya’s precision, This crucial dismissal signaled the beginning of the end for the Black Caps. In Jayasuriya’s very next over, he bowled the last man, William O’Rourke, for a duck, securing Sri Lanka’s hard-fought victory in just 3.4 overs on the fifth day.

• Rachin Ravindra (69.3): Jayasuriya gets the much-needed breakthrough for Sri Lanka by dismissing the well-set Ravindra, who was nearing a century. Tossed up on middle and leg, it’s an arm ball that Ravindra misreads, playing down the wrong line. The umpire gives it out LBW after a lengthy consideration, and despite Ravindra’s review, the decision stands as the ball was pitching in line. Ravindra departs for 92 off 168 balls, leaving New Zealand at 209/9.
• William O’Rourke (71.4): Jayasuriya wraps up the innings with his fifth wicket, delivering a fuller ball from wide of the crease on off-stump. It straightens, and O’Rourke, playing for the line, misses it as the ball clips the top of off-stump. This wicket seals a five-wicket haul for Jayasuriya, ending New Zealand’s innings at 211.

Also WATCH: Tim Southee takes a flying catch to dismiss Pa?thum Nissanka on Day 3 of the 1st Test

Prabath Jayasuriya’s match-winning spell

Jayasuriya’s second-innings figures of 5/68 in 30.4 overs highlighted his dominance throughout the match. His spell on Day 4 had already wrecked New Zealand’s top and middle order, claiming the prized wickets of star players Kane Williamson, Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips.

• Kane Williamson (16.2): Jayasuriya outfoxes Williamson, who was using his feet confidently throughout the innings. Anticipating Williamson’s charge, Jayasuriya pulls his length back slightly, causing the batter to miss. The ball turns past the edge, and Mendis completes a neat stumping. Williamson is dismissed for 30 runs off 46 balls, leaving New Zealand at 51/2.
• Tom Blundell (46.1): Jayasuriya strikes again with his consistent strategy of bowling over the wicket. Blundell attempts a premeditated reverse sweep to a delivery tossed outside leg but misses. The ball spins sharply into the stumps, sending Blundell back for 30 off 43 balls, reducing New Zealand to 152/5.
• Glenn Phillips (51.5): With clever balling, Jayasuriya dismisses Phillips. A sharp ball catches Phillips’ edge as he attempts to defend, and it’s taken cleanly by Kusal Mendis at head height. Phillips departs for 4 runs from 14 balls, leaving New Zealand at 171/6.

Here’s the video: 

Prabath Jayasuriya rips through New Zealand and bags the Player of the Match 🎯🌟#SonySportsNetwork #SLvNZ #PrabathJayasuriya pic.twitter.com/6OQIjvoWLf

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 23, 2024

Jayasuriya’s impressive stats for Sri Lanka

This stellar performance marked Jayasuriya’s eighth five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Across the match, he picked up nine wickets, adding to his career tally of 88 wickets in just 15 Tests at an impressive average of 29.27. Notably, 13 of his wickets have now come against New Zealand, underlining his knack for troubling the Black Caps’ batters

Earlier Sri Lanka posted 305 in their first innings, with Kamindu Mendis scoring a century, while New Zealand responded with 340, thanks to fifties from Latham, Williamson and Daryl Mitchell. In Sri Lanka’s second essay, Dimuth Karunaratne’s 83 helped the hosts set New Zealand a target of 275. Ajaz Patel was the standout bowler for the Black Caps, taking six wickets in Sri Lanka’s second innings. Despite a valiant fight from New Zealand, including Ravindra’s 92, they were bowled out for 211, with Jayasuriya’s nine wickets leading Sri Lanka to a memorable win.

Also READ: Twitter reacti?ons: Rachin Ravindra’s brave effort falls short as Prabath Jayasuriya seals win for Sri Lanka over New Zealand in the 1st Test

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Sri Lanka triumphed over New Zealand by 63 runs in a closely contested first Test match at Galle on Monday (September 23). The encounter saw several noteworthy individual performances, with Sri Lankan spinner Prabath Jayasuriya emerging as the standout player, claiming eight wickets across both innings to earn the Player of the Match accolade. New Zealand, despite fighting valiantly in their second innings, fell short of their 275-run target as Sri Lanka’s spin attack dominated the final stages.

Kamindu Mendis anchors Sri Lanka’s first innings with a crucial century

In Sri Lanka’s first innings, Kamindu Mendis played a pivotal role, scoring a patient 114 off 173 balls, enabling the hosts to post a respectable total of 305. Kamindu’s knock was marked by his composure and ability to fend off a probing New Zealand bowling attack. Sri Lanka had earlier struggled with quick dismissals, losing both openers, Pathum Nissanka (27) and Dimuth Karunaratne (2), within the first six overs. Dinesh Chandimal (30) and Angelo Mathews (36) provided some stability, but it was Mendis�?partnership with Kusal Mendis (50) that lifted Sri Lanka. New Zealand pacer William O’Rourke was the pick of the bowlers, claiming five wickets for 55 runs, supported by Ajaz Patel�?/strong>s two wickets.