Kamindu Mendis Leaves IPL 2025 Fans in Awe with His Double-Armed Bowling Against KKR

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 continues to deliver surprises, and one of the most intriguing moments came during the match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Kamindu Mendis, SRH’s ambidextrous bowler, left commentators and fans bewildered as he showcased his unique ability to bowl with both arms. Adding to the drama, Kamindu had canceled his honeymoon to participate in the tournament, proving his dedication to the game.
Who is Kamindu Mendis?
Kamindu Mendis is a 27-year-old Sri Lankan all-rounder known for his ambidextrous bowling skills. Born on September 30, 1997, in Galle, Sri Lanka, Kamindu has represented his country in international cricket, earning a reputation for his versatility. He can bowl both left-arm orthodox spin and right-arm off-spin, a rare skill that has made him a valuable asset in T20 cricket.
Kamindu was picked by SRH for INR 75 lakhs during the IPL 2025 auction, marking his debut season in the league. Before the IPL, Kamindu married his long-time girlfriend, Nishni, but postponed their honeymoon to focus on his IPL commitments. His dedication to cricket has earned him admiration from fans and teammates alike.
Kamindu’s Performance Against KKR
In his maiden IPL appearance, Kamindu Mendis made history by becoming the first ambidextrous bowler to take a wicket in the tournament. Bowling just one over, he dismissed Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who had scored a fluent half-century. Kamindu’s unique approach left commentators impressed and batters confused.
- Bowling Style: Kamindu bowled with his left arm against Raghuvanshi and switched to his right arm against Venkatesh Iyer in the same over. This ability to adapt his bowling style based on the batter’s strengths is a testament to his cricketing intelligence.
- Commentary Reaction: Former Zimbabwe cricketer Pommie Mbangwa, who was on commentary, remarked, “He bowled accurately with both arms. But it is confusing for a batter, isn’t it?”
Although SRH lost the match, Kamindu’s performance was a silver lining, showcasing his potential to be a game-changer in future matches.
The Match Recap
The clash between SRH and KKR on April 3, 2025, was a high-scoring affair. KKR posted a formidable total of 200/6, thanks to half-centuries from Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Venkatesh Iyer. SRH’s bowling attack struggled to contain KKR’s batters, with Kamindu Mendis being the standout performer.
In response, SRH’s batting lineup faltered, managing only 120 runs, handing KKR an 80-run victory. Despite the loss, Kamindu’s ambidextrous bowling was the highlight of the match, earning praise from fans and experts.
Kamindu’s Journey in Cricket
Kamindu Mendis has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, representing Sri Lanka Army Sports Club and Galle Gladiators in T20 leagues. His ambidextrous bowling first gained attention during the ICC Under-19 World Cupin 2016, where he impressed with his versatility.
In international cricket, Kamindu has played for Sri Lanka in both ODIs and T20Is, showcasing his all-round abilities. His IPL debut with SRH marks a new chapter in his career, providing him with a platform to compete against the best players in the world.
What Makes Kamindu Mendis Special?
Kamindu’s ambidextrous bowling is a rare skill that gives him a unique edge in T20 cricket. By switching between left-arm spin and right-arm off-spin, he can exploit the weaknesses of batters and adapt to different match situations. His ability to bowl accurately with both arms makes him a valuable asset for SRH.
Additionally, Kamindu’s dedication to the game is evident in his decision to postpone his honeymoon for IPL 2025. This level of commitment has earned him respect from fans and teammates, making him a role model for aspiring cricketers.
Future Prospects
Kamindu Mendis’s debut performance in IPL 2025 has set the stage for a promising career in the league. If he continues to deliver impactful performances, he could become a key player for SRH and a sought-after talent in T20 cricket. His unique skill set and dedication to the game make him a player to watch in the coming seasons.
For a detailed preview of the IPL 2025 match between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians (MI), you can explore the following resources:
IPL 2025 Preview: Lucknow Super Giants vs Mumbai Indians – 16th Match, April 4
Moneycontrol’s Match Preview: Get predictions, head-to-head stats, and Dream XI suggestions for the clash.
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