Sri Lanka’s rising cricket star, Kamindu Mendis, has made headlines by breaking several longstanding records in the cricketing world. On September 26, 2024, during the second Test against New Zealand in Galle, the 25-year-old achieved a remarkable feat—becoming the first cricketer in history to score 50 or more runs in eight consecutive Test matches since his debut. In doing so, Mendis surpassed cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar, who had held the record for six consecutive 50+ scores during his early Test career.
Record-Breaking Performances by Mendis
Kamindu Mendis has consistently delivered standout performances since returning to the Sri Lankan Test squad. After making his debut in 2022 with a score of 61 against Australia, Mendis was dropped from the team. However, his comeback in 2024 has been nothing short of sensational. He has now scored nine innings of 50 or more, including four centuries and four half-centuries, in just eight Tests.
The young cricketer’s scores over these innings have been incredibly consistent: 61, 102, 164, 92*, 9, 12, 113, 74, 4, 64, 114, 13, and 51* (ongoing Test). His impressive form has cemented his place as one of the brightest stars in world cricket.
Surpassing Cricket Legends
With his latest 50+ score, Mendis has not only broken Gavaskar’s record but also outshined other renowned players. Here is a quick look at the cricketers who have scored 50+ in consecutive Test matches after debuting:
- Kamindu Mendis: 8 consecutive Tests
- Saud Shakeel: 7 consecutive Tests
- Sunil Gavaskar: 6 consecutive Tests
- Saeed Ahmed: 6 consecutive Tests
- Basil Butcher: 6 consecutive Tests
- Bert Sutcliffe: 6 consecutive Tests
Mendis’s Strong 2024 Comeback
Mendis’s return to Test cricket in 2024 has been a turning point in his career. Since his comeback, he has amassed 812 runs in 12 innings, maintaining an impressive average of 81. His best score during this period was a commanding 164, proving his ability to perform under pressure and against top opposition. His remarkable consistency has placed him among the best current Test players globally.
Current Match Update: Sri Lanka vs New Zealand
On the opening day of the second Test between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, Sri Lanka posted a strong total of 306/3, with Mendis still unbeaten at the crease. Angelo Mathews provided solid support with 78* as the two batsmen added 85 runs for the fourth wicket. Earlier, Dinesh Chandimal’s 116 helped stabilize the innings after the loss of Pathum Nissanka for just 1 run in the first over.
Sri Lanka is in a strong position, leading the two-match series 1-0 after their 63-run victory in the first Test. With Kamindu Mendis in top form, Sri Lanka looks poised to dominate New Zealand once again.
