KKR vs SRH, IPL 2025: Who is Kamindu Mendis? SRH's Debutant who can Bowl with Both Arms, cancelled Honeymoon for IPL

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In the IPL 2025 match today (April 3, 2025) between Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Eden Gardens, the SRH have handed a debut to Sri Lanka's Kamindu Mendis.

SRH dropped Wiaan Mulder from the team and have brought in Kamindu Mendis, who is a special bowler who can bowl with both hands.

Who is Kamindu Mendis?

Kamindu Mendis is a talented Sri Lankan cricketer known not just for his all-round capabilities, but also for a rare and remarkable skill - ambidextrous bowling. A unique figure in modern cricket, Mendis has impressed both in domestic and international arenas and is now set to feature in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Born on September 30, 1998, in Galle, Sri Lanka, Kamindu Mendis attended Richmond College, where his cricketing journey began. From an early age, he showcased the extremely rare ability to bowl with both arms - something that would go on to define his identity as a cricketer.

Kamindu Mendis Career

Kamindu made his List A debut in 2015 and quickly rose through the ranks with consistent domestic performances. He captained Sri Lanka's Under-19 team in the 2018 World Cup and made his international T20I debut against England the same year. His ODI debut followed in 2019, and he earned his Test cap in 2022.

He enjoyed a major breakthrough in 2024, scoring twin centuries in a Test series against Bangladesh, showcasing his batting potential in addition to his already well-known bowling skills.

Sunrisers Hyderabad Move - IPL 2025

In the IPL 2025 auction, Kamindu Mendis was picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 75 lakh. The franchise saw value in his versatility, both with the bat and the ball, especially given the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket. His ability to bowl both right-arm off-spin and left-arm orthodox gives SRH an exciting new dimension this season.

Kamindu Mendis Unique Facts

Ambidextrous Bowling: Kamindu is one of the very few cricketers in the world who can bowl with both arms effectively - right-arm off-spin to right-handers and left-arm orthodox to left-handers.

Cancelled Honeymoon to Join SRH: He postponed his honeymoon in March 2025 to join the Sunrisers Hyderabad camp - a testament to his professionalism and commitment to the franchise. Mendis married his long-time girlfriend Nishni in Sri Lanka. Following the wedding, the couple enjoyed a brief honeymoon in Haputale. They opted for a local getaway due to Mendis's commitment to join Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2025.