Kusal Mendis – Player Profile, Stats & Latest Updates

If you follow Sri Lankan cricket, you’ve probably seen Kusal Mendis’ name pop up a lot lately. The left‑handed batsman has been a regular fixture in the national side and his game is getting better with each match. In this article we’ll break down what makes him tick, look at his recent scores, and highlight the moments that have defined his career.

Recent Performances

In the last few series Kusal has shown he can handle pressure. During the recent ODI tour of England, he notched a solid 78 off 85 balls, helping Sri Lanka chase a tough target. His strike rate stayed around 92, which is decent for the format. In T20 cricket he’s been a bit more aggressive, hitting a quick 45* against India that swung the match in Sri Lanka’s favor.

When you watch his innings, you’ll notice he likes to play late on the off‑side. He’s comfortable with the cut and the pull, and he often uses his wrist to guide the ball into gaps. That technique has helped him score runs on slower pitches where other batsmen struggle.

One thing to watch is his consistency in the middle order. He’s had a few low scores, like a duck against Australia in the Test series, but those are part of a learning curve. Overall, his average in ODIs sits around 34 and in T20s about 28 – numbers that suggest he’s a reliable contributor, especially when the top order fails.

Career Milestones

Kusal broke into the senior team in 2018 after impressive showings for the Under‑19 side. His Test debut came against West Indies, where he scored a gritty 55 in the first innings. That innings earned him a place in the squad for the 2019 World Cup, and although he didn’t get many chances, the experience was valuable.

The biggest highlight so far has been his maiden ODI century against Pakistan in 2021. He made 102 off 108 balls, guiding Sri Lanka to a competitive total. That knock earned him the “Man of the Match” award and cemented his spot as a middle‑order mainstay.

Off the field, Kusal is known for his calm demeanor. Coaches often praise his work ethic, saying he spends extra time in the nets working on his footwork. Fans appreciate his willingness to interact on social media, sharing training clips and match insights.

Looking ahead, the next big challenge for Kusal is the 2026 ICC World Cup. If he can keep his form steady, he could play a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. His ability to rotate the strike and finish games will be crucial, especially against top‑tier bowling attacks.

So whether you’re a die‑hard Sri Lankan supporter or just a casual cricket fan, Kusal Mendis is a player worth keeping an eye on. His growth over the past few years shows a mix of talent and determination, and his next performances will likely shape his legacy in Sri Lankan cricket.