Kamindu Mendis reached another major milestone in his Test career, crossing 1,500 runs during Sri Lanka’s second Test against India in Colombo. The left-hander reached the mark with a composed 32-run knock on Day 3.
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — Sri Lanka batter Kamindu Mendis completed 1,500 Test runs during the third day of the second and final Test against India in Colombo on August 25, 2026. Mendis needed 31 runs before the innings and reached the landmark after scoring 32 from 58 deliveries.
The milestone came during an important recovery effort for Sri Lanka, who had slipped to 35/3 after India declared their first innings at 503/9. Mendis joined Pasindu Sooriyabandara and helped the hosts counter India’s bowling attack with an attacking approach.
Key Highlights
- Kamindu Mendis reached 1,501 Test runs in his 18th Test and 31st innings.
- He scored 32 runs from 58 balls, including three fours and one six.
- Mendis now averages 53.6 in Test cricket, one of the best marks among Sri Lankan batters.
- Kumar Sangakkara is the only other Sri Lankan batter with more than 1,000 Test runs and an average above 50.
Kamindu Mendis crosses 1,500 Test runs
Mendis entered the third day needing only 31 runs to complete the milestone. He reached the target during his 32-run innings before India’s Prasidh Krishna dismissed him.
His knock came at a crucial stage for Sri Lanka. The hosts were under pressure after losing three wickets for 35 runs, but Mendis and Sooriyabandara responded by taking the attack to the Indian bowlers.
The pair added 87 runs, giving Sri Lanka some much-needed momentum and forcing India captain Shubman Gill to rotate his bowlers. Mendis eventually departed after facing 58 balls, with his innings containing three boundaries and a six.
Mendis among Sri Lanka’s best Test averages
After his latest innings, Mendis has 1,501 Test runs from 31 innings at an average of 53.6. That places him in elite company among Sri Lankan batters with at least 1,000 Test runs.
Only former Sri Lanka great Kumar Sangakkara has a higher average among players meeting that 1,000-run benchmark. Sangakkara finished with a Test batting average of 57.4.
Mendis has also shown an ability to turn starts into major scores. Five of his 11 Test innings in which he passed 50 have been converted into centuries.
Strong record in home and away Tests
Mendis has played nine Tests each at home and away from Sri Lanka. His record outside Sri Lanka has been particularly impressive, with 877 runs coming at an average of 54.81.
He has scored 624 runs in home Tests, adding another dimension to a record that has remained strong across different conditions.
Fastest Sri Lankan to 1,000 Test runs
The 1,500-run milestone adds to Mendis’ rapid rise in Test cricket. In September 2024, he became the fastest Sri Lankan batter to reach 1,000 Test runs, accomplishing the feat in only 13 innings.
Only Herbert Sutcliffe and Everton Weekes had reached 1,000 Test runs faster, with both completing the milestone in 12 innings. Mendis’ latest achievement further highlights the remarkable start he has made to his Test career.
Mendis milestone comes during India Test
The landmark arrived during a difficult phase for Sri Lanka in Colombo. India had posted 503/9 before declaring, leaving the hosts with a substantial first-innings challenge.
Mendis’ partnership with Sooriyabandara briefly shifted the momentum before Krishna ended the stand. India remained in control of the contest as Sri Lanka continued their attempt to respond to the visitors’ imposing total.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Test runs does Kamindu Mendis have?
Kamindu Mendis has 1,501 Test runs after his 32-run innings against India in Colombo.
How many Tests has Kamindu Mendis played?
Mendis reached the 1,500-run milestone in his 18th Test and 31st innings.
What is Kamindu Mendis’ Test batting average?
His Test batting average stands at 53.6 after reaching 1,501 runs.
Who is the only Sri Lankan batter with a better average?
Among Sri Lankan batters with at least 1,000 Test runs, Kumar Sangakkara is the only player with a higher average, at 57.4.
Praveen Yadav is the Founder and Editor at The Nation Bulletin. With over 3 years of experience in digital journalism and news reporting, he covers national affairs, governance, and breaking current events with a commitment to factual accuracy and verified reporting.
