Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe are set to face each other in a highly anticipated clash, where Sri Lanka look to extend their dominance while Zimbabwe aim to surprise with their new-look squad.The match will be played on the scheduled tour date at Sri Lanka’s home venue.
Prediction: Sri Lanka to win.
Match Details:
• Match: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
• Venue: Sri Lanka (official home ground for the series)
Teams Overview
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka come into this match with confidence but also a sense of urgency after an inconsistent run at the Asia Cup 2025. Despite losing the dead rubber against India, opener Pathum Nissanka produced a memorable century, showing he is in strong form and ready to anchor Sri Lanka’s innings. Sri Lanka’s batting unit revolves around Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, and Sadeera Samarawickrama.
Their bowling attack is led by Nuwan Thushara, who despite a quiet Asia Cup campaign with six wickets in six matches, remains their most dangerous weapon with the new ball. His slingy action, skiddy pace, and yorker accuracy make him a threat in all phases of the innings. Supporting him will be Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, and the experienced Kasun Rajitha.
Sri Lanka appear stronger on paper because of their balanced squad, quality spin-bowling options, and home advantage.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe enter this series with several experienced names and promising performers. Their squad includes Clive Madande, Wellington Masakadza, Brad Evans, Richard Ngarava, Graeme Cremer, and Musekiwa, giving them depth across departments. Richard Ngarava and Brad Evans form the core of their pace attack, both capable of swinging the ball early and producing breakthroughs.
Zimbabwe’s spin department will rely heavily on Wellington Masakadza and veteran leg-spinner Graeme Cremer. Their batting, however, has been their biggest concern in recent tours. Much will depend on Craig Ervine, Madande, and the middle-order’s ability to handle Sri Lanka’s spinners in subcontinent conditions.
Zimbabwe have the potential to challenge Sri Lanka, but consistency remains their biggest hurdle.
Key Players to Watch
Probable Best Batter – Pathum Nissanka
Pathum Nissanka is currently in excellent form. His recent century against India proved his ability to build big innings under pressure. Even during the ODI series against Pakistan, he consistently got starts, recording three scores in the 20s. In home conditions, Nissanka is expected to convert his starts into a decisive knock.
Probable Best Bowler – Nuwan Thushara
Despite a below-par Asia Cup campaign, Nuwan Thushara’s skillset makes him a major threat. His slingy arm action helps him generate deceptive pace, and his yorkers are among the most accurate in Sri Lanka’s bowling attack. With adequate rest and home conditions in his favour, he is well positioned to deliver a match-winning spell.
Head-to-Head
Sri Lanka have dominated Zimbabwe historically in both ODIs and T20Is. Their superior spin attack and stronger batting lineup give them a clear edge. Zimbabwe have produced occasional upsets, but consistency remains an issue.
Live Streaming (No Links)
• Sri Lanka: Dialog TV, PeoTV
• Zimbabwe: ZBC Sports
• India & South Asia: Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV
• Pakistan: Ten Sports, Sony LIV (app)
• UK: Sky Sports Cricket, Sky Go
• USA: Willow TV
• Middle East: STARZPLAY, Etisalat
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka
Kusal Mendis (c)
Sadeera Samarawickrama
Charith Asalanka
Janith Liyanage
Dasun Shanaka
Dunith Wellalage
Maheesh Theekshana
Nuwan Thushara
Kasun Rajitha
Dilshan Madushanka
Zimbabwe
Clive Madande
Craig Ervine
Musekiwa
Graeme Cremer
Wellington Masakadza
Brad Evans
Ryan Burl
Richard Ngarava
Sikandar Raza (c)
Blessing Muzarabani
Sean Williams
Pitch Report
The pitch is expected to assist spin in the middle overs, offering grip and turn as the game progresses. Pacers will get early swing due to humidity, and slower balls may work well during the death overs. Batting becomes easier once the ball softens, but later in the match, the surface may break and favour spinners heavily.
Probable Match Scenarios
Sri Lanka may dominate with spin and early powerplay control.
Zimbabwe’s best chance is early wickets and restricting Sri Lanka’s top order.
Nissanka and Mendis could set up a strong Sri Lankan total if they survive the first 10 overs.
Zimbabwe need a standout performance from Raza, Ngarava, or Masakadza to stay competitive.
Match Prediction
Sri Lanka are favourites due to stronger batting depth, home conditions, and a more effective bowling attack. Zimbabwe can challenge, but Sri Lanka are expected to win the match comfortably.
