Sri Lanka Dominates Second Test: Kamindu Mendis Shines with Fifth Century

Sri Lanka took control of the second test against New Zealand, thanks to Kamindu Mendis' fifth career century, which helped the hosts post a declared 602-5. Mendis' efforts included an unbeaten 182 and reaching 1,000 test runs in his 13th innings. Sri Lanka's bowlers then reduced New Zealand to 22-2 by stumps.

Sri Lanka surged ahead in the second test match against New Zealand on Friday, with emerging star Kamindu Mendis scoring his fifth career century, helping the hosts post a formidable 602-5 declared on day two in Galle.

The visitors ended the day at 22-2, still trailing by a daunting 580 runs, after early wickets by Asitha Fernando and Prabath Jayasuriya. Kamindu, who scored another hundred in the first test, made history by becoming the fastest Asian to reach 1,000 test runs in just 13 innings, surpassing the record previously held by India's Vinod Kambli.

Beyond his individual achievements, Kamindu formed an essential 200-run partnership with Kusal Mendis, who also scored a century. This partnership reinforced Sri Lanka's dominant position after winning the first game of the series. The team's total was helped by Angelo Mathews' score of 88 and a steady contribution from Dhananjaya de Silva, piling pressure on the opposition before declaring their innings.

(With inputs from agencies.)