Kamindu Mendis has made a sensational impact in Test cricket with a phenomenal start to his career. After debuting in 2022, the talented left-hander had to wait until March 2024 to play his second Test match.
Since his return, the 25-year-old has been rewriting records with stunning performances. In 2024, Mendis delivered several remarkable innings, etching his name into the record books.
He has already scored five Test centuries in just 13 innings and holds the distinction of being the fastest Asian to reach 1,000 Test runs. Additionally, Mendis is the first player in Test cricket history to record a fifty-plus score in each of his first eight matches.
5. 102 vs Bangladesh, Sylhet
Kamindu Mendis marked his maiden Test century in spectacular fashion during Sri Lanka’s first innings against Bangladesh in Sylhet. Batting under pressure at 57/5, he scored 102 off 127 balls, including 11 fours and three sixes. His remarkable 202-run partnership with captain Dhananjaya de Silva proved crucial. Sri Lanka won the match by 328 runs, with Mendis adding another century in the second innings.
4. 113 vs England, Manchester
Scoring a century in England is a significant milestone for any Asian batter, and Kamindu Mendis achieved this feat in his debut Test in England. Battling challenging conditions in Manchester, he scored 113 runs in Sri Lanka’s second innings, showcasing his class and resilience. Despite his efforts, England secured a five-wicket victory.
3. 114 vs New Zealand, Galle
Kamindu Mendis scored his first home Test century in Galle during the opening match of the two-Test series against New Zealand. His 114 off 173 balls in the first innings was instrumental in setting up a competitive total of 305. Sri Lanka ultimately triumphed by 63 runs, with Mendis playing a pivotal role in the victory.
2. 164 vs Bangladesh, Sylhet
In a stellar comeback Test against Bangladesh in Sylhet, Kamindu Mendis delivered two centuries. After scoring his maiden Test ton in the first innings, he followed it up with a magnificent 164 off 237 balls in the second innings, featuring 16 fours and six sixes. This knock remains the second-highest score of his burgeoning Test career.
1. 182 vs New Zealand, Galle
Kamindu Mendis recorded his career-best Test score of 182* in the second Test against New Zealand in Galle. His knock came off 250 balls and included a mix of elegance and aggression, helping Sri Lanka post a mammoth total of 605/5. Achieving five Test centuries in just 13 innings, Mendis set a new record as the fastest Asian batter to reach this milestone.