Kusal Mendis praises Pakistan’s security, food and hospitality

RAWALPINDI: Sri Lanka Test captain Kusal Mendis has praised Pakistan’s security arrangements and hospitality, saying he has enjoyed his stay in the country after spending more than a month playing cricket here.

Speaking at a press conference in Rawalpindi, Mendis said security in Pakistan was excellent and noted that the food in Pakistan and Sri Lanka was almost identical, making the visiting players feel comfortable during their stay.

The Sri Lankan skipper also shared his views on the importance of Test cricket, describing it as a format that offers a different challenge compared to limited-overs cricket.

He said Test cricket remained a format every player wanted to experience, highlighting its significance and unique demands.

Discussing his team’s preparations, Mendis expressed confidence in Sri Lanka’s balance between batting and bowling. He pointed out that the team’s bowlers possessed considerable first-class cricket experience, which could prove valuable in the longer format.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam also addressed the media in Rawalpindi, expressing confidence in his team’s preparations and the form of its young players.

Babar said several members of the squad had arrived after playing first-class cricket and were carrying good form into the upcoming challenges.

He maintained a positive outlook, adding that he always tried to deliver his best performances as a senior member of the team.

Reflecting on his individual performance, Babar acknowledged that no cricketer was perfect and that there was always room for improvement.

He said he regularly analysed his mistakes and believed that more playing experience would help him become a better cricketer.

The two captains’ comments highlighted their confidence ahead of the Test contest, with Sri Lanka backing its balanced squad and Pakistan relying on a combination of experienced players and emerging talent.