“Came into that side only because Dhananjaya had Covid” – Kamindu Mendis on not playing a Test for 2 years after half-century on debut

Sri Lankan batter Kamindu Mendis scored an impressive knock of 61 runs on his Test debut against Australia at the Galle International Stadium, Galle in 2022. Mendis had replaced current captain Dhananjaya de Silva, who was ruled out with Covid-19.

Despite making an impressive debut against the Australians at home, Mendis had to make way for Dhananjaya when he recovered from the virus. 

After not playing any Test cricket for two years, Mendis returned to Sri Lanka’s line-up in the opening Test match against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. The left-hander was dismissed after scoring only 12 runs in the first innings.

However, the southpaw proved his mettle in the second essay, scoring a brilliant knock of 113 runs off 183 balls to keep the visitors in the contest. The tourists were able to take a lead of 204 runs and Mendis played an instrumental role in helping Sri Lanka post a fighting score of 326 runs in the second dig.

Mendis said as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo, “I knew that the batting was packed, but what I tried to do was to do as best as I could in the chance that I had. I had to exit the team after that, but I don’t see that as a mistake.

“You have to take various decisions to balance a team, and I came into that side only because Dhananjaya had COVID. When he returned, I had to make way. That’s fair.”

Mendis revealed he had always dreamed of playing a test match at the iconic Lord’s. The left-hander’s dream will be fulfilled as the second Test will be played at the home of cricket.

“From when I was little, I had a dream to play a Test at Lord’s. It’s not just my dream, I think every player has that target. I’ve been able to get there. If we can win this match, it’ll be even more valuable to us,” the 25-year-old said.

Mendis has got off to an impressive start in his young Test career as he has amassed 553 runs in four Test matches at an average of 92.17.

The second Test match between England and Sri Lanka will be played at Lord’s, starting August 29.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Pep Guardiola signs Manchester City extension through 2027

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has signed a two-year contract extension with the club till… Read More

November 22, 2024

Mohammedan SC’s Andrey Chernyshov wants team to give their best in every Indian Super League match

Mohammedan SC’s head coach Andrey Chernyshov wants the club to give their best in every… Read More

November 22, 2024

Nick Kyrgios says the game of tennis is bland in the post Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal era

Controversial Nick Kyrgios has predicted tennis will become bland after Rafael Nadal’s retirement. Nadal lost… Read More

November 22, 2024

PV Sindhu Falls in China Masters, Satwik-Chirag and Lakshya Sen Advance to Quarter-Finals

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu’s journey at the China Masters 2024 badminton tournament came to… Read More

November 22, 2024

Gavaskar Criticizes Team India’s Selection Choices in First Test Against Australia

Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has voiced strong criticism of the Indian team management's selection… Read More

November 22, 2024

Mohun Bagan’s Resurgence Under Jose Molina: Three Players Who’ve Benefited Most

Mohun Bagan has bounced back impressively in the 2024-25 Indian Super League (ISL) season, climbing… Read More

November 22, 2024