South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2019: Test Series review

#5 Kusal Mendis shows his class again

Kusal Mendis is emerging as Sri Lanka's leading Test batsman

With both Chandimal and Mathews out of the team, the onus was on Kusal Mendis to lead the way for his team. His superb innings in the fourth innings of the final Test showed that he is perfectly capable of leading the way.

The way he batted on the third morning was splendid to watch. By playing in a positive way and putting away every loose ball that was bowled, Mendis ensured that his team was on their way to victory and South Africa left dispirited after just a few overs.

His stroke-play against the likes of Steyn and Rabada was of the highest quality. By tempering his aggression and not playing silly shots, he also ensured that no wickets were lost.

Since returning to the Sri Lankan Test team last year, Mendis has gone from strength to strength. The last knock was another proof of his class and firmly establishes him as the pivot around which Sri Lanka’s batting would revolve in future. The future looks bright for both Mendis and his team.