Sri Lanka's Kamindu Mendis celebrates after scoring a century during the first day of the first Test against New Zealand at the Galle International Cricket Stadium in Galle on Wednesday — AP GALLE, Sri Lanka, Sept 18 (AFP): Sri Lanka's Kamindu Mendis scored a courageous century against New Zealand Wednesday as the hosts wrestled back the initiative to reach 302 for seven at stumps on the first day of the first Test.
Sri Lanka had slumped to 106 for four just after lunch but Kamindu -- player of the series for Sri Lanka during their recent tour of England -- provided a confident and calm performance that steadied the team.
Kamindu's innings came to an end on 114 in the penultimate over of the day when Ajaz Patel turned the ball sharply and it popped off the glove for an easy catch at first slip. Kamindu, a versatile all-rounder known for his ability to bat and bowl with both hands, is playing in his seventh Test match. He has already notched up four centuries and four half-centuries in scoring more than 800 runs.
Sri Lanka were in a little trouble going into tea at 178 for five but a 103-run stand between Kusal Mendis and Kamindu rescued them and provided a reasonable first innings total.
Kusal posted a half-century but fell soon afterwards to an unusual dismissal when the ball struck Tom Latham at short leg, with skipper Tim Southee snapping up the catch. Rookie New Zealand fast bowler William O'Rourke had earlier rattled Sri Lanka's top order, taking two wickets as the hosts reached 88 at lunch.
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