Wed Sep 18 15:29:15 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lanka Dominate Day 1 of Galle Test, Mendis Century Leads Hosts to 302/7

**Galle, Sri Lanka:** Sri Lanka ended the first day of the first Test against New Zealand in a strong position, reaching 302/7 at stumps thanks to a brilliant century from Kamindu Mendis. The young left-hander, who made his Test debut in 2022, reached his fourth Test hundred in just his seventh Test match, setting a new Sri Lankan record for the fastest to reach this milestone.

Mendis, who batted with authority and grace, scored 111 runs off 224 balls, including 11 boundaries, in a masterful display against the New Zealand spin attack. He was particularly impressive in his footwork and use of the crease, unsettling the spinners throughout the day.

The day began with Sri Lanka winning the toss and electing to bat. However, New Zealand fast bowler William O’Rourke made early inroads, dismissing both Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka inside the first six overs. O’Rourke continued to impress, picking up three wickets in total and causing a lot of trouble for the Sri Lankan batting order.

Despite the early setbacks, Mendis and Angelo Mathews steadied the ship with a crucial partnership of 72 runs for the fifth wicket. Mathews, who returned to bat after being hit on the gloves by O’Rourke, eventually fell for 34 runs.

Kusal Mendis, the wicketkeeper, then joined Kamindu Mendis and the pair put on a valuable 103-run stand to further solidify Sri Lanka’s position. Kusal Mendis contributed a quick-fire half-century, scoring 55 runs off 68 balls.

However, New Zealand fought back towards the end of the day with Ajaz Patel dismissing Kamindu Mendis and Glenn Phillips picking up the wicket of Kusal Mendis. Despite the late wickets, Sri Lanka finished the day on a high, with Ramesh Mendis and Prabath Jayasuriya unbeaten at the crease.

New Zealand, who were looking to make amends after an abandoned Test against Afghanistan last week, will be hoping to make a comeback on day two. Their four-pronged spin attack will be looking to exploit the conditions and challenge the Sri Lankan batsmen on a pitch that is expected to offer further assistance to the spinners.

Read More