Lengthy stoppage in Bangladesh-Sri Lanka Test as batter hits wicketkeeper’s helmet in pull-shot follow-through
There was a lengthy delay on the opening day of the first Bangladesh-Sri Lanka Test after Kusal Mendis hit Litton Das on the helmet with his bat, leading to a concussion check.
The Sri Lanka No.3 aimed a full-blooded pull shot at the bowling of Nayeem Hasan, and while the stroke only found square leg, Mendis’ bat made contact with the Bangladesh wicketkeeper in his follow-through.
The unusual incident occurred in the final over before lunch, with Mendis unbeaten on 27. Das fell to the ground and removed his helmet, rubbing his forehead before receiving medical treatment. After a break in play, Das was able to resume his position behind the stumps.
Mendis carried on to his half-century before being dismissed by the first ball after tea, with another pull shot bringing his downfall. He hit a dragged-down delivery from Taijul Islam to Nayeem at midwicket.
Sri Lanka enjoyed the best of the first day, reaching stumps well placed on 258-4, with Angelo Mathews’ unbeaten 114 the headline performance.
— cric fun (@cric12222) May 15, 2022
