Galle: Kamindu Mendis' exceptional performance in Test cricket continues to impress, as he has achieved yet another milestone by scoring his eighth consecutive fifty or more in Test matches, according to the ICC.
This accomplishment marks a new record, as no other player has achieved fifty or more in each of their initial eight Test matches.
In the second Test against New Zealand in Galle, Mendis once again demonstrated his remarkable prowess.
Facing Angelo Mathews at the other end, Mendis emerged as the dominant figure in their partnership, scoring his half-century in just 53 balls.
This assertive strategy supported by Mathews complemented Dinesh Chandimal's previous century, which had already established Sri Lanka in a formidable position.
Mendis' consistency has been a hallmark of his Test career, with his remarkable sequence of fifty or more scores highlighting his dependability and skill at the batting crease.
Prior to Mendis setting this new standard, the record was previously held by Pakistan's Saud Shakeel, who achieved fifty or more in his initial seven Test matches.
By the conclusion of the day's play, Sri Lanka had reached a total of 306/3, with Mathews and Mendis contributing to an unbeaten partnership of 85 runs.
This dominant display further cements Sri Lanka's strong position in the ICC World Test Championship series, following their victory at the same venue earlier in the week, which has placed them in a commanding 1-0 lead.
Mendis' exceptional consistency and capacity to perform under high-pressure situations remain a pivotal strength for Sri Lanka as they endeavor for success in the Test cricket domain.
In his inaugural Test match, Mendis achieved a significant milestone by scoring his fourth Test century in his seventh match. He achieved this feat with a score of 114 runs from 173 deliveries against New Zealand at Galle on Wednesday.
Following his outstanding performance in England, Mendis was elevated to the position of No. 5 in the team.
Mendis has achieved centuries in Sylhet, Manchester, and Galle, though he considers his performance in Galle to be particularly memorable.
On his Test debut against Australia in 2022, Mendis demonstrated exceptional prowess, scoring 61 runs. He continued to excel against Bangladesh earlier in the year, scoring 102 runs in Sylhet during the first innings and an impressive 164 runs in the second innings, followed by an unbeaten 92 runs in Chattogram.
In a match against England, Mendis scored 113 runs at Old Trafford, added 74 runs at Lord's, and ended the match with 64 runs at The Oval, contributing to Sri Lanka's victory in a Test match on English soil for the first time in a decade.
As a result of his outstanding performances, Mendis has risen to the 16th position in the Test batting rankings.
