Sri Lanka continued their dominance over New Zealand on Day 2 of the second Test at Galle International Cricket Stadium, with Kusal Mendis shining bright as he reached a remarkable century. Following the earlier efforts of Kamindu Mendis, who also scored a brilliant century, Kusal’s performance highlighted Sri Lanka’s strong position in the match.
Kusal Mendis’ century: A milestone achievement
Kusal showcased his exceptional talent on Day 2 by scoring a brilliant century, marking his 10th Test ton. Coming in at a critical moment, Kusal played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s innings, reaching the three-figure mark with a magnificent six over long-on off Glenn Phillips.
His composed innings of 106 not out helped solidify Sri Lanka’s commanding total of 602 runs before the declaration. Kusal’s performance not only added significant runs to the scoreboard but also underscored his importance in the batting lineup as Sri Lanka aims for a decisive victory against New Zealand.
Declaration stops Kamindu Mendis from reaching a landmark
Meanwhile, Kamindu narrowly missed out on his maiden double century, remaining unbeaten on a commendable 182 as Sri Lanka’s captain, Dhananjaya de Silva, made the strategic decision to declare the first innings at a formidable total of 602/5. While Kamindu’s remarkable innings showcased his resilience and skill, the declaration came just as he appeared poised to reach the coveted milestone.
Despite the disappointment of not achieving a double ton, his contributions were vital in establishing a solid foundation for Sri Lanka in the match, setting the tone for the team’s dominance over New Zealand.
Also READ: SL vs NZ: Fans erupt as Kamindu Mendis shatters records with 5th Test century on Day 2 of the 2nd Test
Here is how fans reacted:
A magnificent century from Kusal Mendis, his 10th in Test Cricket! What a player! 👏 #SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/uN2hDBMxKR
— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) September 27, 2024
Kusal Mendis brings up his 10th Test in style with a SIX!!!
SL just piling on the runs on 592-5#SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/H9PG8qobZ2
— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) September 27, 2024
That’s a Kusal ton for Mendis who has flourished in his new role.
Sri Lanka will be happy, Chandimal with runs at first drop. Mendis lower down the order, things looking bright and sunny for Sri Lanka!#SLvNZ
— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) September 27, 2024
It is safe to say that Kusal Mendis has nailed the no. 07 position. #SLvNZ
— Naveen Peiris (@_Naviya_) September 27, 2024
Kusal Mendis is the leading run-scorer in 2024 across all formats.#SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/FDqu6TT4dK
— JISPORTS (@ImooJadeed) September 27, 2024
After 5 long years, Kusal Mendis registered his first Test hundred in World Test Championship history. #SLvNZ
– The longest wait is finally over for Medis. pic.twitter.com/6TBsqUZMng
— Thurunu Jayasiri (@ThurunuJ) September 27, 2024
100 for Kusal Mendis.#SLvsNZ pic.twitter.com/wRZr8APDTl
— Prasanna Rodrigo (@Prasanrod) September 27, 2024
10th Test Century for 🇱🇰🏏 Kusal Mendis
2nd Test Century vs New Zealand
4th Test Century in Galle
6th Test Century in Sri Lanka #sportspavilionlk #SLvsNZ #SLvNZ #KusalMendis #danushkaaravinda pic.twitter.com/vPL0TRnzMR
— DANUSHKA ARAVINDA (@DanuskaAravinda) September 27, 2024
https://twitter.com/_extracover_/status/1839613870194737614
100 for Kusal Mendis
3rd century in Sri Lankan innings 594/5 on board and they haven’t declared yet#SLvNZ pic.twitter.com/KtUhvgRLRI
— Abhijeet ♞ (@TheYorkerBall) September 27, 2024
Kusal Mendis 🔥👏🏻
Century with a six 🙌🏻
His 10th Test 100 and 4th in Galle.
Comeback to form with a rebirth at number 7 #SLvsNZ
— Loshan – ARVLOSHAN (@ARVLoshan) September 27, 2024
Kusal Mendis finally breaks the curse with a brilliant 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣. Well played Menda ❤️#SLvsNZ
— Prabath🇱🇰 (@Prabathkv96) September 27, 2024
GOAT KUSAL MENDIS GETS HIS CENTURY WITH A SIX
— Anfaas🇵🇸 (@AnfaasUTD) September 27, 2024
Kusal Mendis also cooked New Zealand with a century
— ydv.k (@tonyvk18) September 27, 2024
What a way to bring hundred.Kusal Mendis with six in test match
— Aryan Goel (@Aryan42832Goel) September 27, 2024
Also WATCH: Dimuth Karunaratne loses cool at Dinesh Chandimal after his unfortunate run out | SL vs NZ, 2nd Test
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