Rixon reckons that the 24-year-old Mendis has the talent and with the right grooming can be a standout player for Sri Lanka.
Remarkably, the Lankans consistently played positive cricket despite having been away from home for the better part of three months.
Lakmal said a key for Sri Lanka's bowlers was that they bowled consistently in the right areas.
It was an extraordinary day’s play during which 18 wickets fell and 282 runs were scored, leaving both teams with a chance of victory.
South Africa had an overall lead of 159 after bowling out the tourists for 154 in their first innings at St George's Park.
Sri Lanka were 60 for three at the close at St George's Park after bowling out South Africa for 222.
South Africa were 185 for seven at tea, with Quinton de Kock, their last recognised batsman, on 68 not out at St George's Park.
Perera’s unbeaten 153-run knock that helped the tourists grab a historic victory in opening Test against South Africa in Kingsmead.
Steyn bowled a ten-over spell after lunch in an effort to blow away Sri Lanka's tail.
Sri Lanka were bowled out for 191 and were unable to build on a good first day when their inexperienced bowlers surprised the SA batsmen.