Kusal Mendis in SL vs BAN (Source: AP)
In a significant development, Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis continued his fine form in the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh. The star player made 84 runs off 87 balls in the first innings of the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo on June 27, 2025.
Although Mendis narrowly missed out on a century, his significant contribution helped Sri Lanka extend their dominance in the match and in the process he also etched his name in record books.
Kusal Mendis Achieves Major Milestone
Kusal Mendis' knock marked his 22nd Test fifty and his 32nd international fifty as a wicketkeeper, propelling him past Romesh Kaluwitharana (31) to become second on the all-time list of most fifties by a Sri Lankan wicketkeeper in international cricket. The 30-year-old is now only behind the legendary Kumar Sangakkara, who leads the chart with a staggering 107 fifties across formats.
Most fifties by Sri Lankan wicketkeepers in international cricket:
- 1 - Kumar Sangakkara: 107 fifties
- 2 - Kusal Mendis: 32 fifties
- 3 - Romesh Kaluwitharana: 31 fifties
- 4 - Niroshan Dickwella: 30 fifties
- 5 - Dinesh Chandimal: 21 fifties
Mendis Leaves A Test Century Behind
Mendis looked set for three figures before a mix-up led to his unfortunate run-out on 84. His innings, laced with crisp drives and smart rotation of strike, ensured SL did not lose momentum despite late wickets. Following his dismissal, Taijul Islam wrapped up the innings, dismissing Asitha Fernando without any addition to the team total, and completed a well-earned five-wicket haul.
Kusal Mendis’ milestone came in the backdrop of a strong batting display by Sri Lanka. The team posted a formidable total of 458 in their first innings. Earlier, Pathum Nissanka laid the foundation with a brilliant 158. He stitched a vital 194-run partnership for the third wicket with Dinesh Chandimal.
With Bangladesh having been bowled out for 247 earlier in the match, Sri Lanka took a commanding 211-run lead in the first innings.
