Wed Sep 18 14:12:07 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Dominate Day 1, Mendis Century Puts New Zealand on the Back Foot
**Galle, Sri Lanka:** Sri Lanka ended the first day of the first Test against New Zealand in a commanding position, thanks to a brilliant century from Kamindu Mendis. Mendis, who smashed his fourth Test hundred in just 11 innings, helped Sri Lanka reach 302 runs for the loss of 7 wickets by stumps.
Mendis’ record-breaking innings, equalling Don Bradman’s record for fastest to 4 Test hundreds, was the highlight of the day for Sri Lanka. He reached his century before tea, putting Sri Lanka in a strong position after a shaky start.
New Zealand, despite claiming key wickets, including Kusal Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva, struggled to contain the Sri Lankan batting. William O’Rourke was the pick of the bowlers for the Black Caps, claiming two wickets.
Angelo Mathews, who walked off the field with a finger injury, was cleared to bat again, providing a boost for the hosts.
The pitch at Galle is offering a good balance between bat and ball, and with Sri Lanka in a dominant position, New Zealand will need a strong start on Day 2 to get back into the contest.
First Piper 