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Kamindu Mendis ton goes in vain as England take 1-0 lead

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2 years ago

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Sri Lanka tour of England 2024 (First Test)

Kamindu Mendis’ outstanding century proved futile as England clinched a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test, thereby establishing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The fourth day commenced with Sri Lanka at 204-6, featuring Kamindu Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal at the crease. The pair adopted a cautious approach during the initial session, managing to avoid any dismissals while forming a 117-run partnership for the seventh wicket.

Kamindu emerged as the standout performer with the bat, achieving his third century in just four Test matches. The left-handed batsman scored 113 runs, including 15 boundaries and a six, before being dismissed at slip immediately after lunch.

This dismissal disrupted Sri Lanka’s innings, as the visitors struggled to accumulate runs, resulting in the loss of their last four wickets within a mere 26 balls.

Dinesh Chandimal, the only recognized batsman remaining, attempted to accelerate the scoring but ultimately he too bit the dust as Sri Lanka added 122 runs to their overnight score, setting a target of 205 runs for England.

In reply, the Host encountered a formidable challenge in their quest for 205 runs to win the first Test against Sri Lanka. Following the loss of their top order before tea on Day 4 at Old Trafford, England found themselves in a precarious position at 70-3, needing an additional 135 runs for victory.

Joe Root and Harry Brook were the only recognized batsmen remaining, with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who had scored a century in the first innings, poised to bat next. The run rate had dipped to 3.97 runs per over, heightening the tension surrounding the outcome.

Dismissals of Ben Duckett (11), Dan Lawrence (34), and captain Ollie Pope (6) had left England’s batting order exposed.

Nevertheless, Root demonstrated resilience, guiding England to victory. He formed vital partnerships with Harry Brook (32) and Jamie Smith (39), ensuring the scoreboard continued to advance.

Despite the loss of Brook and Smith during the chase, Root remained steadfast, ultimately sealing the win for England with a determined 62 runs off 128 balls.

The second Test match between England and Sri Lanka is scheduled to commence on August 29 at Lord’s.

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SLC President Shammi Silva and Executive Committee Step Down Effective Today

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3 hours ago

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April 29, 2026

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The President of Sri Lanka Cricket, Shammi Silva, has officially resigned from his position with immediate effect, according to an announcement released by the board today (29).

In a significant development, all office-bearers and members of the Executive Committee have also stepped down from their respective roles, signaling a complete leadership transition within the governing body.

Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that the decision has been formally conveyed to Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage.

No further details were immediately provided regarding the reasons behind the mass resignation or the process for appointing new leadership.

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Cricket

Sri Lanka Cricket Grants Rs. 10 Million to Rising Javelin Athlete Rumesh Tharanga

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19 hours ago

on

April 28, 2026

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) today provided a financial grant to rising javelin thrower Rumesh
Tharanga Pathirage.

This support was extended under the direction of the SLC President Mr. Shammi Silva and
the Executive Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket, following a request made by the Minister of
Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage.

Rumesh Tharanga received the grant this evening at the SLC headquarters.
This initiative is part of SLC’s ongoing efforts to support and promote sports beyond cricket,
as well as to assist promising athletes in achieving success at the international level.

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Cricket

Sports Ministry Yet to Confirm Reports of Leadership Change at Sri Lanka Cricket

Published

1 day ago

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April 28, 2026

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The Ministry of Sports has not released any official statement regarding speculation over a potential leadership change at Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), according to Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage.

Addressing recent media inquiries, the minister clarified that reports suggesting SLC President Shammi Silva could step down and be succeeded by former Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) parliamentarian Eran Wickramaratne remain unverified.

“We have not issued any official statement as a ministry on this matter. These claims are currently limited to social media reports,” Gamage said.

He further noted that the ministry intends to address the situation formally in the near future.

“We are planning to hold a media briefing soon and will release an official statement. Further discussion can take place after that,” he added.

The remarks come amid growing public attention over the administration of Sri Lanka’s cricket governing body, though authorities have yet to confirm any changes at the top.

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