Kusal Mendis and Dinusha excel for Sri Lanka in Antigua

On July 4, 2026, Sri Lanka continued to dominate the second day of the Test match against West Indies in Antigua. After a strong opening day, Sri Lanka declared at 549 for 9, with notable contributions from Udara (188) and Dinusha (92). On Thursday, Dinusha and Kusal Mendis formed a solid partnership, adding 143 runs together.

West Indies began their innings late in the day and closed at 58 for 1, trailing by 491 runs. The only wicket to fall was that of Brandon King, dismissed for 17 runs by Asitha Fernando, who took the only wicket for Sri Lanka on the day. John Campbell remained not out on 31, while Kavem Hodge was at the crease with 6 runs.

Sri Lanka's bowlers had their chances but missed several opportunities, including tough chances off Hodge and Campbell. The most straightforward chance went begging as Udara misjudged a catch at slip. Despite some dropped catches, Sri Lanka managed to keep the West Indies' scoring in check.

During the day's play, Sri Lanka struck 211 runs after having established a solid foundation on the first day. Mendis and Dinusha led the charge effectively, with both batsmen surpassing fifty. Mendis was particularly aggressive after lunch, compiling runs quickly and displaying a range of shots that kept the pressure on the West Indies bowlers. He scored a significant portion of his runs during a brisk partnership after lunch.

After Mendis was dismissed for a quick 71—falling to an attempted scoop—Dinusha also looked set for a century but was out for 92, hitting a leading edge to cover. Following their dismissals, the run rate slowed, but Sri Lanka remained in a commanding position as they resumed batting on the third day needing to press their advantage.