Kamindu Mendis: Staying Calm Key to Test Cricket Success

Sri Lankan cricketer Kamindu Mendis attributes his success in the Test format to staying calm. Mendis, with an impressive batting average of 92.16, shared his philosophy before the second Test against England in the three-match series. He emphasized giving his best for the team in all aspects of the game.

Sri Lankan cricketer Kamindu Mendis attributes his success in the Test format to a mantra of staying "calm." Mendis showcased his talents with a remarkable 113-run performance against England in Manchester, despite the team's loss in the opening Test of the three-match series.

With a batting average of 92.16, the second-highest in Test history for players with over 500 runs, Mendis discussed his approach ahead of the second Test. He revealed his focus on calmness and his goal to always contribute to the team, whether through batting, bowling, or fielding.

"I do basic things and try to keep calm in the middle. What I wanted was to do what I could on the day for the team. That's really my only goal: to give as much to my team as possible," Mendis said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. Despite a strong debut against Australia two years ago, Mendis waited until earlier this year to seize another opportunity with twin hundreds against Bangladesh and prove his worth.

Reflecting on his time as a squad player, Mendis noted, "Even though I didn't get to play, I was in the squad and traveling with the team, pretty much every tour." His experiences have clearly played a role in his success. Kamindu will now aim to continue his form in the second Test against England at Lord's, starting Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies.)