Ajantha Mendis was one of Sri Lanka‘s most difficult spin bowlers. He became famous for his many bowling variations and his special carrom ball.
His performance against India in the 2008 Asia Cup final made him a world cricket star. At just 23, his cricket performance also helped him get promoted in the Sri Lankan Army from rifleman to second lieutenant. Mendis later became the fastest bowler to take 50 ODI wickets. However, injuries and a loss of form slowly pushed him out of international cricket. He retired from all formats in 2019. But what happened to the mystery spinner after that?
Who is Ajantha Mendis?
Born on March 11, 1985, Mendis was a right-arm spinner known for his many types of deliveries. He made his ODI debut against West Indies in April 2008 and took three wickets for 39 runs.
Why did Mendis become famous in 2008?
Mendis became a big name during the 2008 Asia Cup. In the final against India, Sri Lanka scored 273 runs. India started well, but Mendis changed the match with a brilliant spell.
He took 6 wickets for 13 runs in 8 overs, including one maiden. India were bowled out for 173, and Sri Lanka won by 100 runs.
What did Mendis achieve against India?
Mendis made his Test debut against India in 2008. He took 26 wickets in three Tests as Sri Lanka won the series 2-1.
In his first Test, he took eight wickets as Sri Lanka beat India by an innings and 239 runs. His wickets included Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman and Sourav Ganguly.
Why did Mendis disappear from cricket?
Mendis became the fastest bowler to take 50 ODI wickets, reaching the mark in only 19 matches. He also took two six-wicket hauls in T20Is.
However, a back injury affected his career. He was not selected for the 2015 World Cup and played his last ODI against New Zealand later that year. He retired from all formats in 2019 at 34.
Where is Ajantha Mendis now?
Mendis returned to cricket in the Legends League in 2022 and later moved into coaching. In July 2026, he joined Pokhara Avengers as a coach in the Nepal Premier League.
What is the carrom ball?
The carrom ball is a spin delivery where the bowler flicks the ball with a finger. It is named after the carrom game. Mendis made this delivery famous in modern cricket.