Mendis unleashes a spectacular show
Despite losing the early wicket of Kusal Perera, Sri Lanka’s batting powerhouse, Mendis, showcased his extraordinary talent in a jaw-dropping display. Mendis, who had already made an impact with 8 sixes in the first powerplay against South Africa, surpassed that feat in the match against Pakistan.
Partnering initially with Pathum Nissanka, who contributed a commendable 50, Mendis engaged in a thrilling contest with the Pakistani bowlers. As Nissanka held his end, Mendis’s relentless assault on the bowlers began, and the Sri Lankan duo put up a formidable partnership.
Fastest century in Sri Lanka’s World Cup history
The highlight of the innings came when Mendis achieved the fastest century ever by a Sri Lankan in the history of the Cricket World Cup. He reached the landmark with breathtaking ease, demolishing the opposition’s bowling attack. His remarkable century was a testament to his exceptional skill and dominance at the crease.
Also READ: CWC 2023 – Twitter erupts as Kusal Mendis hits dazzling ton against Pakistan; fastest-ever by a Sri Lankan in World Cup history
Samarawickrama shines with the willow
Even after Mendis’s departure following his century, the entertainment did not cease. Samarawickrama took charge and played gracefully, earning himself a well-deserved century. His elegant strokeplay and effortless batting style caught the attention of spectators and fans alike.
Mendis scored 122 of 77 balls, including 14 fours and 6 sixes, Samarawickrama smashed 11 fours and a couple of maximums enroute to his 108 from 89 deliveries. When it comes to Pakistan, Hasan Ali managed to take a couple of crucial wickets but the rest of their bowling unit faced a formidable challenge from the Sri Lankan batters. Bowlers like Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi had an off-day, contributing to Sri Lanka’s massive total.
A historic total
Sri Lanka’s final total of 344/9 in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 encounter marked a significant milestone. It stands as the highest total ever recorded against Pakistan in the history of World Cup matches. Sri Lanka’s remarkable performance with the bat has now set a daunting target for Pakistan to chase.
Highest totals against Pakistan in World Cups:
- 344/9 by Sri Lanka, Hyderabad, 2023*
- 336/5 by India, Manchester, 2019
- 334/9 by England, Nottingham, 2019
- 310/8 by Australia, Johannesburg, 2003
- 310/8 by Australia, Johannesburg, 2003
Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – Controversy erupts as fan wearing Team India jersey waves Pakistan flag in Hyderabad during PAK vs SL clash
Here is how Twitter reacted:
Sri Lanka posts a challenging 344/9 after 50 overs.Now, it's time to defend the target!#LankanLions #SLvPAK #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/pIiThCUWbn
— Sri Lanka Cricket(@OfficialSLC) October 10, 2023
Kusal mendiswhat a knock
#ICCMensCricketWorldCup2023
— Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) October 10, 2023
Sadeera Samarawickrama is in scintillating form!!What a performance from the youngster!!
Sri Lanka is in a commanding position. #CWC23 #PAKvSL
— Robin Aiyuda Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) October 10, 2023
Magnificent innings from Kusal Mendis
He’s such a difficult batsman to contain when he’s on song, and he’s in the form of his life. Great to see him doing justice to his potential
He should continue play with the same intent as he did in the last two games.#CWC2023 #PAKvSL
— Lasith Malinga (@malinga_ninety9) October 10, 2023
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