Sri Lanka player admits mistake, says he's feeling for Virat Kohli comment

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Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Kusal Mendis has apologised to Virat Kohli for his comments during a World Cup 2023 press conference.

Virat Kohli scored his record-equalling 49th ODI hundred against South Africa at the Eden Gardens last Sunday (November 5). Kohli's 49th ton means he is now level with Sachin Tendulkar in terms of centuries in the 50-over format.

Kusal Mendis, who was Sri Lanka's captain in the absence of Dasun Shanaka, was asked about Kohli's 49th ODI hundred against South Africa.

During the press conference of Sri Lanka's match against Bangladesh, Mendis was asked by a journalist whether he would like to congratulate Kohli as the Indian batter, to which Mendis replied, "why I would congratulate him?"

That reply of Mendis hasn't been taken lightly as the player has been bashed for his arrogance. But now the player has reportedly apologised for his earlier comments and has said he didn't understand the meaning of the question at that time.

Mendis also stated he feels sorry and feels for his comments in that press conference.

"During the press conference, I wasn't aware that Kohli scored his 49th hundred, when the journalist suddenly asked, I don't know what to say & I didn't understand the question as well - scoring 49 hundreds is not easy - what I said was wrong, I am feeling for it," Mendis was quoted by Asian Mirror.

Sri Lanka meanwhile have been eliminated from the World Cup 2023 after a dismal campaign saw them winning just two matches. The Lankans have finished 9th in the World Cup and thus have jeopardized their Champions Trophy 2025 qualifications as well.