Kamindu Mendis Shines as Sri Lanka Sweeps New Zealand 2-0

Kamindu Mendis played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's 2-0 series win against New Zealand, scoring an unbeaten 182 in the second test. Promoted to number three, Dinesh Chandimal also struck a century, validating the rejigged batting order. New Zealand, struggling on Galle's spin-friendly pitch, face India next.

Kamindu Mendis significantly bolstered Sri Lanka's middle-order batting, leading to a 2-0 series victory over New Zealand, as stated by captain Dhanajaya de Silva. Mendis notched his fifth career century with an unbeaten 182, propelling Sri Lanka to declare their first innings at 602-5, culminating in an innings victory in the second test.

Dinesh Chandimal, promoted to number three, also scored a century, affirming the decision to revamp the batting lineup. De Silva expressed confidence in the new order, believing Kamindu's consistency at five and his own finishing skills at six would strengthen the team.

Kamindu, who became the fastest Asian to reach 1,000 test runs in just 13 innings, expressed joy at scoring in his hometown, Galle. Meanwhile, New Zealand captain Tim Southee acknowledged the challenges of the spin-friendly pitch as his team dropped to seventh in the World Test Championship standings. Despite improved second-innings efforts, New Zealand heads to India for their next test series on Oct. 16.

(With inputs from agencies.)