Wed Sep 18 15:50:01 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Fights Back on Day One of Galle Test Against New Zealand
**Galle, Sri Lanka:** Kamindu Mendis’ courageous century steered Sri Lanka to a respectable 302 for seven at the end of the first day of the first Test against New Zealand in Galle.
Sri Lanka, after a shaky start, found themselves at 106 for four just after lunch. However, Mendis, the Player of the Series in Sri Lanka’s recent tour of England, steadied the ship with a calm and confident performance.
Mendis’ knock ended on 114 in the penultimate over of the day, falling to a sharp delivery from Ajaz Patel that he popped to the first slip. The all-rounder, known for his versatility in both batting and bowling with both hands, has now notched up four centuries and four half-centuries in his seven Test matches.
A crucial 103-run partnership between Mendis and Kusal Mendis, who scored a half-century before being dismissed in unusual fashion when the ball struck Tom Latham at short leg, helped Sri Lanka reach a decent total.
Earlier, New Zealand’s rookie fast bowler William O’Rourke had rattled the Sri Lankan top order, claiming two wickets, including the prized scalp of opener Dimuth Karunaratne, who was dismissed for two.
The Black Caps, who have dominated Sri Lanka in recent years, are seeking to maintain their strong record in the ongoing World Test Championship. Currently third on the table, they are in contention for a place in the final. Sri Lanka, fifth on the table, will be looking to upset the visitors and earn valuable championship points.
The first Test, played under the shadow of the majestic Galle Fort, will see a rest day on Saturday due to Sri Lanka’s presidential elections. The second Test will be played in Galle starting September 26.
First Piper 