Wed Sep 18 17:27:53 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Reach 302-7 Despite Early Struggles in Galle Test

**Galle, Sri Lanka:** Kamindu Mendis’s brilliant century (114) propelled Sri Lanka to a respectable 302-7 on the opening day of the first test against New Zealand in Galle. The hosts, after electing to bat, found themselves in trouble at 106-4, with New Zealand’s William O’Rourke causing havoc with his aggressive bowling, claiming three wickets.

O’Rourke dismissed both openers Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka, while Angelo Mathews (36) and Dinesh Chandimal (30) combined to stem the tide before falling to Tim Southee and Glenn Phillips respectively.

Mendis, who came in at number five, played with incredible composure and aggression. He reached his fourth test hundred in style, driving spinner Rachin Ravindra through cover, and received a standing ovation from his teammates.

Mendis shared a crucial 103-run partnership with Kusal Mendis (50), who fell victim to a bizarre dismissal in the final session. Ajaz Patel eventually ended Kamindu’s innings, with the ball bouncing off the footmarks and catching him off guard.

Despite the early struggles, Sri Lanka will be pleased with their recovery, thanks to the brilliance of Kamindu Mendis. The hosts will be looking to build on this foundation and put themselves in a commanding position in the first test.

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