Kamindu Mendis showcased outstanding form by scoring his third Test century, guiding Sri Lanka to a significant 169-run lead over England by lunch on Day 4 of their first Test at Old Trafford. Resuming the day at 204 for 6, Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal built a crucial unbeaten partnership of 101 runs, with Mendis reaching his century on 101 not out. This performance marks Mendis as the first Sri Lankan to score a Test century in England while batting at No. 7 or below. The absence of England's key bowler, Mark Wood, due to injury, further compounded England's struggles. Sri Lanka aims to stretch their lead to around 300 runs to pressurize England in their final innings. Mendis's consistent performances have brought his Test average to over 100, solidifying his reputation in the format.