ZIM vs SL 1st T20I, 2025 Match Preview:

Zimbabwe (ZIM) lock horns with Sri Lanka (SL) in the first match of the T20 Series. Zimbabwe (ZIM) lost the ODI series against Sri Lanka (SL) by 2-0. Zimbabwe played their last game against NZ in the tri-series. ZIM lost 4 out of their last 5 matches. In this series, they aim to bounce back.

Sri Lanka (SL) also lost their last T20 series against Bangladesh by 2-1. Pathum Nissanka has been consistently performing well for Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka will be looking to continue their dominance in the T20 series as well. 

ZIM vs SL Recent Performance

ZIM vs SL Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe, 2025 Match Details:

• Series/Tournament: T20I Series, 2025
• Match: ZIM vs SL Match 1st T20I
• Date: 31 August 2025
• Match Start Time: 01:00 PM IST
• Stadium/Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe
• Live Score: cricketwinner.com
• Live Streaming: YouTube and Fan Code app.

ZIM vs SL Head-to-Head Stats:

ZIM vs SL Pitch & Weather Report:

The weather for the 1st T20I of the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe, 2025. The sky will be obvious. There is a moderate chance of rain. The temperature can go up to 21 degrees Celsius. Overall, ideal conditions for a good game of cricket.

According to previous data, the average score at this venue ranges between 150 and 170 runs. The surface is excellent for the batters and fast bowlers, promising a balanced contest.

Toss History at College Ground, Cheltenham: 

In the last 5 games at College Ground, Cheltenham, approximately 68% of matches have been won by the chasing side, indicating that the surface is more favourable for batters in the second half.      

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Playing 11

Zimbabwe (ZIM) Probable 11:

1. Ben Curran/R Burl, 2. Brian Bennett, 3. Brendan Taylor(WK), 4. Sean Williams, 5. Sikandar Raza, 6. Clive Madande(WK), 7. Tony Munyonga, 8. Brad Evans, 9. Richard Ngarava, 10. Ernest Masuku, 11. Blessing Muzarabani

Sri Lanka (SL) Probable 11:

1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Nishan Madushka(WK), 3. Kusal Mendis(WK), 4. Sadeera Samarawickrama(WK), 5. Charith Asalanka(C), 6. Janith Liyanage, 7. Kamindu Mendis, 8. Dushmantha Chameera, 9. Maheesh Theekshana, 10. Asitha Fernando, 11. Dilshan Madushanka

ZIM vs SL- Top Picks from Zimbabwe (ZIM).

ZIM vs SL- Top Picks from Sri Lanka (SL).

ZIM vs SL Cricket Winner Player Insights:

• Sikandar Raza (ZIM) delivered an excellent all-around performance in the recently concluded ODI series. In his last 5 T20S, he scored 107 runs. He will be a must-own pick in this match.
• Pathum Nissanka (SL) was the highest run scorer from Sri Lanka in the ODI series. In his last 5 T20S, he scored 156 runs. The Sri Lankan opener will be eager to play a big knock in this match as well.
• Kusal Mendis (SL) is another solid pick for this match. He scored 170 runs in his last 5 outings. 
• Richard Ngarava (ZIM) has been consistently performing well for Zimbabwe, taking 10 wickets in his last 5 games. He will be a good pick from the bowling section.

ZIM vs SL Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

ZIM vs SL Fantasy Team Suggestion:  

Fantasy Team: Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka(c), Sikandar Raza(vc), Sean Williams, Kamindu Mendis, Richard Ngarava, R Burl, D Shanka, Blessing Muzarabani, and M Pathirana

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Expert Advice 

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka (SL) is expected to win this match. SL won the recently concluded ODI series by 0-2 and also has a strong head-to-head record against ZIM in T20S. Additionally, their key players, such as Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, and Kusal Mendis, have been in red-hot form.

ZIM vs SL 1st T20I FAQ

Who is likely to win the ZIM vs SL match today?

Sri Lanka (SL) is expected to win this match.

Who is ahead in head-to-head stats?    

Sri Lanka (SL).

Who are the top fantasy picks for the ZIM vs SL Dream11 team?

Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sikandar Raza, Pathum Nissanka

What is the pitch report for this match?

The pitch is batting-friendly, and we can expect an average score range between 150 and 170 runs.

Zimbabwe cricket has received a massive boost with the inclusion of veteran wicketkeeper-batter Brendan Taylor back in their T20I squad. Taylor hasn't played a T20I since April 2021 against Pakistan, and is now back nearly three years later after receiving a lengthy ban earlier this year.

Taylor is 38 years old and was suspended from all forms of the game back in 2022, as he did not report a corrupt approach in time. He has had his ban since August this year and gradually been reintegrated into to Zimbabwe unit, with him playing in a Bulawayo Test against New Zealand earlier this year and then taking part in an ODI series against Sri Lanka. Taylor is recalled in the T20I, where Zimbabwe is looking to bolster its squad prior to some important qualifying events.

Zimbabwe recall veterans for Sri Lanka T20I series

In addition to Taylor, another veteran, Sean Williams, also returns in T20I and last played a game in Zimbabwe's T20I against Algeria in May 2024, whereby he can also be expected to bring balance to the middle order. His comeback is also a timely inclusion as Zimbabwe prepares for the  Africa regional qualifiers later this month, where there are two spots for the T20 World Cup next year, 2026.

ALSO SEE: 3 reasons why IPL franchises need to bring back Keshav Maharaj

Zimbabwe could not secure a berth at the T20 World Cup 2024 after losing matches to Namibia and Uganda in the regional qualifiers. With experienced players such as Taylor, Williams, and captain Sikandar Raza on board, this time they will be looking to ensure they do not repeat failure. 

Zimbabwe's T20I squad vs Sri Lanka:

Sikandar Raza (capt), Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Brad Evans, Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sean Williams.

It will be tough for Zimbabwe, as they face Sri Lanka, and of course, they have only faced the Sri Lankans six times previously in T20Is. Their last match-up was in January 2024, when they met for a three-match T20I series in which Sri Lanka won 2-1. With Taylor and Williams back in the fold, Zimbabwe supporters will be hopeful that they show more competitiveness this time around.

ZIM vs SL 2nd ODI, 2025 Match Preview:

Zimbabwe (ZIM) fell short by just 7 runs in the first ODI against Sri Lanka (SL). In this match, SL posted 298 runs on the board, thanks to brilliant half-centuries of Kamindu Mendis and Pathum Nissanka and restricted Zimbabwe (ZIM) to 291 runs. Dilshan Madushanka and Asitha Fernando played a major role, sharing 7 wickets between them.

Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza delivered excellent all-around performances from Zimbabwe. However, their effort went in vain as the team failed to chase down the target. In this 2nd ODI,  Zimbabwe will be aiming to level the series.

ZIM vs SL Recent Performance:

ZIM vs SL Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe, 2025 Match Details:

• Series/Tournament: ODI Series, 2025
• Match: ZIM vs SL Match 2nd ODI
• Date: 31 August 2025
• Match Start Time: 01:00 PM IST
• Stadium/Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe
• Live Score: cricketwinner.com
• Live Streaming: YouTube and Fan Code app.

ZIM vs SL Head-to-Head Stats:

ZIM vs SL Pitch & Weather Report:

The weather for the 2nd ODI of the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe, 2025. The sky will be obvious. There is a moderate chance of rain. The temperature can go up to 27 degrees Celsius. Overall, ideal conditions for a good game of cricket.

According to previous data, the average score at this venue ranges between 230 and 250 runs. The surface is excellent for the batters and fast bowlers, promising a balanced contest.

Toss History at Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe: 

In the last 5 games at Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe, approximately 60% of matches have been won by the chasing side, indicating that the surface is more favourable for batters in the second half.      

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Playing 11

Zimbabwe (ZIM) Probable 11:

Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Sean Williams (c), Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza, Wesley Madhevere, Brad Evans, Tony Munyonga, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu

Sri Lanka (SL) Probable 11:

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Nishan Madushka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka

ZIM vs SL- Top Picks from Zimbabwe (ZIM).

ZIM vs SL- Top Picks from Sri Lanka (SL).

ZIM vs SL Cricket Winner Player Insights:

• Sikandar Raza (ZIM) delivered an excellent all-around performance in the previous match against Sri Lanka. He scored 92 runs and took 1 wicket. He will be a must-own pick in this match.
• Pathum Nissanka (SL) scored 76 runs, helping their team to post 298 runs on the board. The Sri Lankan opener will be eager to play a big knock in this match as well.
• Sean Williams (ZIM) is an experienced player from the Zimbabwe side. He played a brilliant innings of 57 runs and took 1 wicket. He could be a beneficial pick.
• Dilshan Madushanka (SL) was the highest wicket-taker for the SL team in the first ODI. He took 4 wickets, helping their team to secure a narrow 7-run victory.

ZIM vs SL Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

ZIM vs SL Fantasy Team Suggestion:  

Fantasy Team: Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Sikandar Raza(C), Sean Williams, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis(vc), Richard Ngarava

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Expert Advice 

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka (SL) is expected to win this match. SL won 4 out of their last 5 matches and also has a strong head-to-head record against ZIM. Additionally, their key players like Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka and Kusal Mendis have been in red-hot form.

ZIM vs SL 2nd ODI FAQ

Who is likely to win the ZIM vs SL match today?

Sri Lanka (SL) is expected to win this match.

Who is ahead in head-to-head stats?    

Sri Lanka (SL).

Who are the top fantasy picks for the ZIM vs SL Dream11 team?

Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams

What is the pitch report for this match?

The pitch is batting-friendly, and we can expect an average score range between 239 and 250 runs.

Zimbabwe foufht well in the first game with both teams showing all-round strenght well. Sikandar Raza looks in good form as well and Zimbabwe could have well been up had it not been for the incredible bowling by Dilshan Madhushana.

ZIM vs SL Match Details

Date: August 31st, 2025

Time:  1:00 PM IST

Venue: Harare Sports Club

ZIM vs SL Weather Report

Harare could be on the pleasant side when it comes to weather with summer slowly starting to set in.

ZIM vs SL Pitch Report

Batting first could be a better bet with a slower track and spin likely.

See Also: Shikhar Dhawan confirms unavailability

ZIM vs SL Head to Head

ZIM vs SL Predicted Playing XI

Zimbabwe Playing XI 

Brendan Taylor, Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Brad Evans, Wessly Madhevere, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngavara, Trevor Gwandu

Sri Lanka Playing XI

Pathun Nissanka, Nishan Madhuska, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Asita Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Jeffrey Vandersay

ZIM vs SL: Players to Watch

Brendan Taylor

One of Zimbabwe's most prolific batter makes another ODI comeback. His return will help give seniority and stability to the top and Zimbabwe will hope he comes good in his first ODI after four years.

Dushmantha Chameera

Dushmantha Chameera has had a start sop career with injuries and now he looks set for another stint in the national side. Can he make it through now with his body more stable and pace in control.

ZIM vs SL Match Tips

Sri Lanka are likely to start favorites with a good record over Zimbabawe

Match Prediction: Australia Will Win the Match

Zimbabwe needed 10 runs in the final over to register a historic win over Sri Lanka. During the hour of need, Dilshan Madushanka appeared as the hero of the Sri Lanka cricket team looking at that time. Madushanka replied with a hat-trick. Three back-to-back wickets in the first three balls of the last over. In the remaining three deliveries, he conceded only 2 runs. Sri Lanka left Harare Sports Club cricket ground as the winner of the first of the 2-match ODI series.

Dilshan Madushanka got the player of the match award for his hat-trick in the final over and ended up with a four-fer. Sikandar Raza was the first batter of the over who lost his wicket against the pacer. Madushanka tried to deliver a yorker, but it was a low full toss. The experienced Zimbabwe batter tried something fancy. Raza walks across the stumps to scoop it over the man at short fine leg but fails to connect, and the middle stump gets uprooted. He departed for 92 off 87.

In the second ball of the over, Madushanka went full and across the right-handed Brad Evans, who spooned the ball towards the fine leg, where Asitha Fernando ran over his right shoulder and took a safe catch. Richard Ngarava tried to find the route to go big and ended up bowled out. That's how Sri Lankan pacer Dilshan Madushanka completed his hat-trick.

DILSHAN MADUSHANKA TOOK A HAT-TRICK IN THE FINAL OVER 🔥 pic.twitter.com/5g0p8JjJ96

— DK Rajpurohit 🇮🇳 (@DeviSin61134860) August 29, 2025

Read More: Duleep Trophy 2025: Hat-trick from Auqib Nabi put East Zone in disarray

Summary of the match: 

Batting first, Sri Lanka scored 298 in exchange for 6 wickets. Pathum Nissanka, an opener, scored 76 runs to provide his team some stability in the beginning. The visitors got the required boost in their run rate from their lower middle-order batters Janith Liyanage and Kamindu Mendis. Janith remained not out for 70 off 47, and Mendis scored 57 off 36.

Chasing the handsome competitive target in the second innings, Ben Curran scored 70 off 90, skipper Sean Williams scored 57 off 54, Raza got 92, and Tony Munyonga remained on the crease for 43*, but they couldn't touch the target because of Madushanka's hat trick. 

Zimbabwe's preparations for their eagerly awaited ODI return have suffered a significant blow, after the wicket-taking Oskers captain, Craig Ervine's, exit from the continuing Sri Lanka series. In the build-up to the first match in Harare, the experienced left-handed batsman had to bow out of the series after suffering an injury to the back of his calf.

Medical scans have indicated the full extent of the damage that was done, as it was established that the 40-year-old sustained a Grade II strain in the left calf, while the scans also showed a chronic and resolving Grade I strain in the right calf. With the scans ruling him out of competing in the ODI contest of 2 matches, the selectors will now have to turn to seasoned all-rounder Sean Williams to lead the team in the absence of the captain, Ervine.

Ervine's absence is a major loss for Zimbabwe, purely based on experience, and considering Ervine was in good form in his past few 50-over matches. His calmness at the top of the order and presence amongst younger players will be missed, and he finds the shaky home side up against a formidable Sri Lankan unit. Williams will have experience to draw upon for captaincy duties and will again be steadfast with a young team competing on Zimbabwe soil.

ALSO SEE: RCB dominate brand value charts as IPL 2025 winners

Focus Shifts to T20I Series After ODIs

Adding further intrigue to the series is the highly anticipated return of Brendon Taylor, who has returned to international cricket close to four years since his last international appearance. A seasoned campaigner and a proven batsman, Taylor had previously played for Zimbabwe in September 2021 against Ireland, and his positive presence will provide vital experience and a protagonist in the middle order. Taylor's return has already sparked tremendous enthusiasm amongst fans who are excited to see him back in the national colors.

This ODI series will also be Zimbabwe's first limited-overs arrangement since their home Tests against South Africa and New Zealand, along with the T20I tri-series earlier this year. With a transitional squad moving between experienced players and new faces, Zimbabwe will use this series to build momentum before the T20I leg of the tour.

The first ODI is on today (29 August) at Harare Sports Club, and the second and final ODI is on 31 August, where he would wish to get some form back before all focus is on the three-match T20I series, where Zimbabwe will hope to challenge their captain's absence and give the tourists a good fight.

ZIM vs SL 1st ODI, 2025 Match Preview:

Zimbabwe (ZIM) and Sri Lanka (SL) will face off in the first match of the ODI series. This match is scheduled to be played at Harare Sports Club, Harare. Zimbabwe (ZIM) won their previous ODI series against Ireland by 2-1, with Brian Bennett playing a vital role for them. On the other hand, Sri Lanka (SL) defeated Bangladesh by 2-1 in their last ODI series. Charith Asalanka and  Kusal Mendis were their key performers. In this match, both teams will be eager to kick off the series with a win.

ZIM vs SL Recent Performance:

ZIM vs SL Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe, 2025 Match Details:

• Series/Tournament: ODI Series, 2025
• Match: ZIM vs SL Match 1st ODI
• Date: 29 August 2025
• Match Start Time: 01:00 PM IST
• Stadium/Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe
• Live Score: cricketwinner.com
• Live Streaming: YouTube and Fan Code app.

ZIM vs SL Head-to-Head Stats:

ZIM vs SL Pitch & Weather Report:

The weather for the 1st ODI of the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe, 2025. The sky will be obvious. There is a moderate chance of rain. The temperature can go up to 27 degrees Celsius. Overall, ideal conditions for a good game of cricket.

According to previous data, the average score at this venue ranges between 239 and 250 runs. The surface is excellent for the batters and fast bowlers, promising a balanced contest.

Toss History at Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe: 

In the last 5 games at Harare Sports Club, Harare, Zimbabwe, approximately 62% of matches have been won by the chasing side, indicating that the surface is more favourable for batters in the second half.      

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Playing 11

Zimbabwe (ZIM) Probable 11:

Brendan Taylor, Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Brad Evans, Wessly Madhevere, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngavara, Trevor Gwandu

Sri Lanka (SL) Probable 11:

Pathun Nissanka, Nishan Madhuska, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Asita Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Jeffrey Vandersay

ZIM vs SL- Top Picks from Zimbabwe (ZIM).

ZIM vs SL- Top Picks from Sri Lanka (SL).

ZIM vs SL Cricket Winner Player Insights:

• Charith Asalanka (SL) has been in red-hot form in the ODI format. In his last 5 ODI matches, he scored  375 runs and took 2 wickets. He will be the top contender for Captain and Vice-Captain in your fantasy team.
• Kusal Mendis (SL) is another in-form player from the Sri Lankan side. The wicket-keeper batsman accumulated 345 runs in his last 5 innings.
• Jeffrey Vandersay (SL) could deliver a magical spell in this match. He took 13 wickets in his last 5 ODIs.
• Sikandar Raza (ZIM) is a key all-rounder from Zimbabwe. He scored 98 runs and took 1 wicket in the last 5 games. As per his reputation and potential, he will be a must-own pick.

ZIM vs SL Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

ZIM vs SL Fantasy Team Suggestion:  

Fantasy Team: Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Jeffrey Vandersay, Sikandar Raza, S Williams, P Nissanka, K Mendis, B Benett, D Wellalage, R Nigarva, A Fernando and J Vandersay

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Expert Advice 

ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction Probable Winners:

Sri Lanka (SL) is expected to win this match. SL won 4 out of their last 5 games and also has a strong head-to-head record against ZIM. Additionally, their key players, such as Charith Asalanka and Kusal Mendis, have been in red-hot form.

ZIM vs SL 1st ODI FAQ

Who is likely to win the ZIM vs SL match today?

Sri Lanka (SL) is expected to win this match.

Who is ahead in head-to-head stats?    

Sri Lanka (SL).

Who are the top fantasy picks for the ZIM vs SL Dream11 team?

Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Sikandar Raza, Jeffrey Vandersay

What is the pitch report for this match?

The pitch is batting-friendly, and we can expect an average score range between 239 and 250 runs.

Sri Lanka begin their quest for an ODI revival. They did not make the Champions Trophy earlier this year and were not at their best in the World Cup as well with a downfall happening in the format. For Zimbabawe too, they have a hill to climb as they look to qualify for the World Cup after missing the last two editions. Brendon Taylor comes back to play for them which could be a spark fo sorts to start.

ZIM vs SL Match Details

Date: August 29th, 2025

Time:  1:00 PM IST

Venue: Harare Sports Club

ZIM vs SL Weather Report

Harare could be on the pleasant side when it comes to weather with summer slowly starting to set in.

ZIM vs SL Pitch Report

Batting first could be a better bet with a slower track and spin likely.

See Also: Shikhar Dhawan confirms unavailability

ZIM vs SL Head to Head

ZIM vs SL Predicted Playing XI

Zimbabwe Playing XI 

Brendan Taylor, Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza, Brad Evans, Wessly Madhevere, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngavara, Trevor Gwandu

Sri Lanka Playing XI

Pathun Nissanka, Nishan Madhuska, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Asita Fernando, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Jeffrey Vandersay

ZIM vs SL: Players to Watch

Brendan Taylor

One of Zimbabwe's most prolific batter makes another ODI comeback. His return will help give seniority and stability to the top and Zimbabwe will hope he comes good in his first ODI after four years.

Dushmantha Chameera

Dushmantha Chameera has had a start sop career with injuries and now he looks set for another stint in the national side. Can he make it through now with his body more stable and pace in control.

ZIM vs SL Match Tips

Sri Lanka are likely to start favorites with a good record over Zimbabawe

Match Prediction: Australia Will Win the Match

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has announced that the Sri Lanka men’s team will tour the country for a much-awaited white-ball series, which will be played entirely at the Harare Sports Club.

According to the schedule, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka will play two ODIs on August 29 and 31. After that, they will face each other in three T20Is on September 3, 6, and 7. The T20I matches will be important for Zimbabwe as they prepare to host the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final tournament from September 19 to October 4.

This series is part of a very busy time for Zimbabwe. They are set to play South Africa in two Test matches in Bulawayo starting this weekend. After that, they will take part in a T20I tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand, followed by two Test matches against New Zealand starting on August 3.

Also Read - South Africa Reveal T20I Squad for Tri-Series vs New Zealand, Zimbabwe: Fresh Faces In, Seniors Rested

“We are happy to confirm Sri Lanka’s visit to Zimbabwe for what we expect to be an exciting and competitive series,” said ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni. 

“Matches between our two countries have always given fans entertaining cricket, and this tour comes at an important time for our team as we prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup qualifying matches,” he added.

Zimbabwe to host Sri Lanka for limited-overs series

Details 🔽https://t.co/eOzNnMkm9n

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) June 26, 2025

The T20I part of the series is very important for Zimbabwe, as it will help them prepare for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final, which will be held in Zimbabwe from September 19 to October 4.

These matches against Sri Lanka come just before the T20 World Cup Africa Regional Qualifiers. Zimbabwe last played in the Men’s T20 World Cup in 2022 in Australia, where they were knocked out in the early stages. Because of poor performances in qualifying matches, Zimbabwe failed to reach the next edition of the T20 World Cup, held in the West Indies and the USA. They also missed out on the 2019 and 2023 ODI World Cups.

By not qualifying for the 2023 ODI World Cup, which took place in India, Zimbabwe also lost the chance to qualify for the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Sri Lanka last visited Zimbabwe in 2023 for the ODI World Cup Qualifiers, but they haven’t played a full bilateral series there since 2016. Currently, Sri Lanka is hosting Bangladesh for a full tour that includes two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. Zimbabwe are also expected to host Afghanistan for an all-format series later this year.

ZIM vs SL Match Preview

With the series tied at 1-1, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe will play the final T20I of the series on Thursday evening at the R Premadasa Stadium. Sri Lanka won the opening game by three wickets on the final ball, while Zimbabwe won by four wickets with one ball remaining on Tuesday. Sri Lanka cannot claim that Tuesday’s defeat was unexpected, as Zimbabwe had run them close in two previous games on this tour. The hosts will need top-order runs on Thursday, and they should have enough quality to win the match and the series. Captain Sikandar Raza was rightfully pleased with his players and the outcome on Tuesday, and there will be plenty of confidence in the Zimbabwe camp that they can now go on to win the series. However, if they are to win two T20Is in a row, they will need to perform at their peak.

ZIM vs SL Match Details

Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka – 3rd T20I

Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium – Colombo

Date & Time: 18th January 2024 at 07:00 PM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode App

ZIM vs SL Venue Stats

ZIM vs SL Pitch Report

The pitch in Colombo is low spinning, and the RPS wicket appears to be slowing down as the Zimbabwe tour progresses. Any first-innings score of 150 or higher should be enough to win the match.

ZIM vs SL Weather Report

Clear skies are expected in Colombo on evening, with temperatures in the mid-twenties. The humidity will be high throughout the match.

ZIM vs SL Last Five Matches

ZIM vs SL Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Schedule Announced: Complete List of Matches, Dates and Venues for T20 World Cup 2024

ZIM vs SL Probable Playing XIs:

Zimbabwe Probable Playing XIs

Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Brian Bennett, Luke Jongwe, Clive Madande (wk), Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

Sri Lanka Probable Playing XIs

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Angelo Mathews, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka

Topmost Picks for ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Zimbabwe

• Sikandar Raza – The captain scored 62 runs from 42 balls on Sunday and he is averaging 44.17 from his last 31 international innings in this format.
• Blessing Muzarabani – The 27 year old pace bowler has caused problems across this tour and added another two wickets to his T20I tally in the opening game of the series.

Top Picks – Sri Lanka

• Kusal Mendis – The keeper-batter hit two fours before being dismissed for 17 runs from 15 balls on Sunday. He has the game to keep the scoreboard ticking along even on a tough pitch for batting.
• Wanindu Hasaranga – The skipper has now taken nine wickets across the last two games of Zimbabwe’s tour. He dismissed Sean Williams and Ryan Burl on Sunday.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for ZIM vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Pathum Nissanka, Craig Ervine, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza(C), Sean Williams, Richard Ngarava, Wanindu Hasaranga(VC), Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for ZIM vs SL Dream11 Team:

Kusal Mendis(C), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Pathum Nissanka, Tony Munyonga, Craig Ervine, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams(VC), Richard Ngarava, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Sikandar Raza, Kusal Mendis

Vice-captain – Wanindu Hasaranga, Sean Williams

Wicketkeeper – Kusal Mendis

ZIM vs SL Probable Winners:

With this T20I series starting immediately after the ODIs, we could see the gap between the sides narrow slightly. However, the gap is enormous, and Sri Lanka were in no mood to take it easy in the final ODI series. We can expect some innovative captaincy from both captains as they look to get off to a winning start in the series, but we don’t believe Zimbabwe has enough quality. Zimbabwe will rely heavily on Sikandar Raza and Richard Ngarava, and we believe Sri Lanka will take advantage. We predict that Sri Lanka will win and go up 1-0. Considering the team combination, Sri Lanka is expected to win this match.