ENG vs SL: Kamindu Mendis scripts history, joins Kapil Dev, Rishabh Pant in elite list with scintillating century in 1st Test vs England

Kamindu Mendis showcased his batting prowess on the fourth day of the first Test match between England and Sri Lanka at Old Trafford. Kamindu Mendis scored a magnificent century, marking a promising start to his Test career for Sri Lanka. This was his third Test hundred in just four matches, solidifying his position as a rising star for the island nation.

Kamindu Mendis historic century in England

With this remarkable knock, Mendis joined a prestigious group of Asian batsmen who have achieved centuries while batting at number seven or below on English soil. He became the seventh Asian batter to accomplish this feat, joining the likes of Sandeep Patil, Rishabh Pant, Anil Kumble, Kapil Dev, Ajit Agarkar, and Ravindra Jadeja.

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Kamindu Mendis played a vital role in securing a significant lead for Sri Lanka. He reached the century mark in 167 balls, showcasing his determination and resilience. Mendis came to the crease at a crucial time, with Sri Lanka struggling at 95-4 after the dismissal of their captain, Dhananjaya de Silva. He formed a valuable partnership with Angelo Mathews, and together they pushed Sri Lanka's lead towards a three-figure mark. The England bowlers seemed to tire during the final hours of day three, and luck also played a role in Mendis and Mathews' success as their catches were dropped. However, their partnership was eventually broken by Chris Woakes, who dismissed Mathews at 65 off 145.

Mendis and Chandimal's Partnership

Kamindu continued his batting blitz when Sri Lanka resumed the Day 4 at 204/6. Kamindu Mendis reached his third Test fifty in style, scoring a boundary off Chris Woakes' delivery. He was then joined by Dinesh Chandimal, who had returned to the field after retiring hurt due to a thumb injury. The duo ended day three with a narrow lead of 82 runs and continued their positive momentum on day four, benefiting from the absence of Mark Wood.

The Sri Lankan batsmen dominated the first session of day four, adding over 100 runs to their overnight total. They went on to post a total of 326 to leave England chasing a target of 205 runs.

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