Kamindu Mendis shines in Galle, matches Bradman's record

Kamindu Mendis made headlines during the second test match against New Zealand in Galle by becoming the joint third fastest player to reach 1,000 test runs, achieving this in only 13 innings. This remarkable feat places him alongside cricket legend Don Bradman, who reached the milestone in 1930. Mendis's innings included five centuries, showcasing his rapid rise in international cricket. Sri Lanka declared their first innings at a commanding 602-5, demonstrating their dominance in the match. Mendis's performance was pivotal, as he scored an unbeaten 182 runs off 250 balls, featuring 16 boundaries and four sixes. His aggressive batting style was highlighted when he reached his 1,000th run with a six, further energizing the crowd. New Zealand faced a daunting challenge, ending the day at 22-2, with their batting lineup under pressure. The Sri Lankan bowlers, led by Asitha Fernando, set the tone early by dismissing Tom Latham in the first over. The Kiwis needed to build partnerships to recover from the early setbacks and avoid a second defeat in the series. Mendis's achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also positions Sri Lanka favorably in the match. His performance has drawn attention to his potential as a future star in cricket, especially after being named player of the series in Bangladesh earlier this year.