Sri Lankan middle-order batsman Kamindu Mendis has made history by becoming the joint-fastest player to score 1000 runs in just eight Test matches. His remarkable feat of achieving this milestone in just 13 innings, equaling the likes of Don Bradman, has put him in an elite club. Sri Lanka's dominant batting display against New Zealand in Galle, where they declared at 602/5, was led by Kamindu's partnership with Kusal Mendis, adding to their impressive tally of three century-plus partnerships in the innings. With the Kiwi openers already dismissed, all eyes will be on Kamindu as he resumes the game on day three.
In the ongoing Sri Lanka vs New Zealand Test series, Sri Lanka has the chance to secure their first series win against the Kiwis in 15 years as they take on New Zealand in the second Test. With a 63-run win in the first Test, Sri Lanka will be looking to continue their successful run with debutant Nishan Peiris replacing Ramesh Mendis in the playing XI. Meanwhile, a victory for New Zealand would not only secure them a series draw but also allow them to reclaim third spot in the WTC rankings.
Sri Lanka clinched a 63-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test at Galle thanks to Prabath Jayasuriya's five-wicket haul. Set a target of 275 runs, the Black Caps struggled against the spinning conditions, with Rachin Ravindra's 92 being the only highlight for the visitors. Jayasuriya, who was named man-of-the-match, credited his success to sticking to the basics and bowling with consistency on the helpful pitch in Galle.