**Asia Cup 2025: Kamindu Mendis Shines Against Pakistan**
*By Parth Dhall | Sep 23, 2025, 11:14 PM*
In a thrilling Super Four encounter of the 2025 Men’s T20 Asia Cup at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Sri Lanka managed to post a competitive total of 133/8 against Pakistan, thanks largely to a resilient half-century by Kamindu Mendis.
### Sri Lanka’s Early Batting Woes
Sri Lanka’s innings got off to a rocky start as they lost early wickets in quick succession. Kusal Mendis was dismissed for a duck on just the second ball of the innings. Pathum Nissanka, another key player, also fell cheaply after scoring only 8 runs. Although Kusal Perera and captain Charith Asalanka managed to add some runs, they were dismissed for 15 and 20 respectively. By the time half the side was back in the pavilion, Sri Lanka were struggling at just 58 runs.
### Kamindu Mendis’ Resilient Knock
The Sri Lankan batting lineup suffered major damage from Pakistan bowlers Shaheen Afridi, Hussain Talat, and Haris Rauf, but Kamindu Mendis stood firm. When Wanindu Hasaranga departed for 15, Sri Lanka was reeling at 80/6.
Kamindu then anchored the innings with a crucial 43-run partnership alongside Chamika Karunaratne, pushing the total past the 120-run mark. Mendis scored a gritty 50 runs off 44 balls, featuring 3 fours and 2 sixes. Unfortunately, in the penultimate over, he was trapped lbw by Shaheen Afridi. The subsequent DRS decision sparked controversy, but Kamindu’s dismissal was upheld.
### Milestone Achievement for Kamindu Mendis
This innings marked a significant milestone for Kamindu Mendis, as he surpassed 500 runs in T20 Internationals. Playing his 32nd match, Mendis now has 525 runs in 28 innings at an average of 21. His strike rate of 128.04 and three half-centuries highlight his growing importance in the Lankan batting lineup.
Sri Lanka’s total of 133/8 sets up an exciting contest against Pakistan, with Mendis’ fighting innings providing a glimmer of hope for the visitors.
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