Kusal Mendis Heroics Power Sri Lanka to Strong Lead in Test Showdown

Kusal Mendis Leads Sri Lanka’s Charge Against Bangladesh in Colombo Test

Kusal Mendis’ Gritty Knock Strengthens Sri Lanka’s Position

Sri Lankan batter Kusal Mendis played a pivotal role in extending his team’s dominance over Bangladesh during the ongoing Test match in Colombo. With the match finely balanced heading into the third day, it was Mendis’ lower-order resistance and precise strokeplay that helped Sri Lanka build a commanding lead of over 200 runs.

Resuming the innings post-lunch, Kusal Mendis displayed excellent game awareness. Managing the strike skillfully with tailenders at the crease, he accelerated the run rate while steadily building his innings. Though he eventually fell short of a century, Mendis’ contribution of 84 runs proved invaluable.

Bangladesh’s Early Resistance Falters Before Kusal Mendis’ Onslaught

Earlier in the morning, Bangladesh had clawed back into the contest with quick wickets. Taijul Islam and Nahid Rana made early inroads as Sri Lanka, which had started the day at 290/2, found themselves reeling after the dismissals of Pathum Nissanka (158), Dhananjaya de Silva (7), and Prabath Jayasuriya (10).

Amid the flurry of wickets, Kusal Mendis arrived at the crease and partnered with Kamindu Mendis to build a much-needed 49-run stand. Both batters adopted a positive approach, attempting to counter Bangladesh’s rising momentum. Kusal’s assured presence at the crease helped Sri Lanka steer clear of further collapses.

Tailenders Support Kusal Mendis in Frustrating Bangladesh Bowlers

After Kamindu Mendis was bowled by Nayeem Hasan for 33, the onus was entirely on Kusal Mendis to rally the lower order. He found able support in Tharindu Ratnayake, who impressively opened his account in Test cricket with a six off Taijul Islam.

The eighth and ninth-wicket partnerships added crucial runs, frustrating the visitors. Though Ratnayake eventually fell into a trap set by Bangladesh and holed out at long-on, Kusal Mendis continued to dominate from the other end.

Kusal Mendis Falls Short of a Century but Leaves a Lasting Impact

In pursuit of a well-deserved century, Kusal Mendis attempted to farm the strike with last-man Vishwa Fernando. However, a sharp throw from Ebadot Hossain in the deep caught Mendis short of his crease while attempting a risky second run. Despite being dismissed for 84, his innings ensured Sri Lanka posted an imposing total of 458.

Bangladesh’s Second Innings Starts on a Cautious Note

Trailing by 211 runs, Bangladesh began their second innings cautiously. Openers Shadman Islam and Anamul Haque managed to see off the initial overs. But just when they looked set to settle in, Anamul mistimed a pull shot off the final delivery before tea and was caught at midwicket. At tea, Bangladesh were 31/1, still trailing by 180 runs.

Morning Session Highlights: Nissanka’s Heroics and Bangladesh’s Fightback

The day began with Pathum Nissanka reaching a magnificent 158 before falling to Taijul Islam. His knock, following a 187 in the previous Test, has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s batting in this series.

Taijul followed it up by removing Sri Lankan skipper Dhananjaya de Silva cheaply. Fast bowler Nahid Rana added to Bangladesh’s joy by dismissing nightwatchman Jayasuriya. However, it was the 49-run stand between Kamindu and Kusal Mendis that prevented Sri Lanka from being completely derailed.

Kusal Mendis’ Key Partnerships Hold Sri Lanka Together

Kusal Mendis not only showcased individual brilliance but also anchored vital partnerships. His contributions helped Sri Lanka cross the 450-run mark, keeping Bangladesh under pressure and setting up a strong platform for a potential win.

His effort came when the team needed composure and determination the most. While wickets fell regularly at the other end, Mendis remained unfazed, rotating the strike, punishing poor deliveries, and motivating his partners.

Bowling Overview: Taijul Islam Shines for Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s bowling attack was led by the experienced Taijul Islam, who claimed a five-wicket haul. His figures of 5 for 131 were a testament to his consistency and ability to trouble batters even on an unresponsive surface. Nayeem Hasan and Nahid Rana also made important contributions, but the inability to dismiss Kusal Mendis early hurt Bangladesh.

Kusal Mendis Proves His Value Yet Again

Kusal Mendis’ 84-run knock not only pushed Sri Lanka past the psychological 450-run mark but also highlighted his growing maturity in pressure situations. Having already built a reputation for himself in limited-overs cricket, Mendis continues to evolve as a dependable Test batter for Sri Lanka.

With Sri Lanka in a dominant position and Bangladesh already one wicket down in their second innings, the hosts will look to capitalize further. The challenge now lies with the Sri Lankan bowlers to maintain pressure and aim for a decisive victory.

Match Summary So Far:

• Bangladesh 1st Innings: 247 all out
• Sri Lanka 1st Innings: 458 all out (Nissanka 158, Chandimal 93, Kusal Mendis 84, Taijul 5-131)
• Bangladesh 2nd Innings: 31/1 at Tea (Day 3)

As the Colombo Test progresses, all eyes will be on how the game unfolds. But one thing is certain — Kusal Mendis has once again cemented his place as a key figure in Sri Lanka’s cricketing future.

Read more: Rath Yatra 2025