Zimbabwe delivered one of their most commanding T20I performances to defeat Sri Lanka by 67 runs in Rawalpindi, defending a modest total of 162 and bowling out the hosts for just 95 in the second match of the ongoing tri-series. The victory marked Zimbabwe’s third T20I win over Sri Lanka and their biggest-ever margin of victory against a full-member nation in the format.
The win was founded on disciplined batting contributions from Brian Bennett and Sikandar Raza, followed by exceptional seam bowling from Richard Ngarava and Brad Evans, who shared five wickets between them to dismantle Sri Lanka’s chase.
Bennett–Raza stand lifts Zimbabwe to a fighting total
Sri Lanka opted to bowl first, and their bowlers immediately made inroads. Wanindu Hasaranga (3/32) and Eshan Malinga (2/27) controlled the innings with early strikes, ensuring Zimbabwe never fully broke free. At 40/2, the visitors were in need of stability, which Bennett and Raza provided through a valuable 61-run partnership for the third wicket.
Bennett scored a confident 49, timing his strokes well and showing intent against spin, while Raza contributed a solid 47, continuing his reliable run in the middle order. The duo briefly threatened to push Zimbabwe towards a total closer to 180. However, Hasaranga’s double strike in the 15th over dismantled the momentum. Zimbabwe eventually finished at 162/8 — a score that seemed slightly below par, particularly with the dew factor expected to favour the chasing side.
Ngarava’s early breakthroughs rattle Sri Lanka
The chase, however, unravelled almost immediately. Richard Ngarava struck in the very first over, removing Pathum Nissanka with a hard-length delivery that took the batter by surprise. In the next over, Tinotenda Maposa dismissed Kusal Perera, putting Sri Lanka under immediate pressure.
A sharp run-out accounted for Kusal Mendis in the seventh over, leaving Sri Lanka struggling at 25/3. The powerplay offered little respite, and the middle order failed to build any meaningful partnerships.
Brad Evans produces match-winning spell
Brad Evans turned the game into a rout with his outstanding spell of 3/9 from four overs. His discipline, control and clever variations prevented Sri Lanka from gaining any rhythm. He bowled Bhanuka Rajapaksa with a precision delivery, later dismissing Eshan Malinga and Maheesh Theekshana — the latter falling off the final ball of the innings.
Sri Lanka’s batting collapse was characterised by soft dismissals and a lack of intent, with only captain Dasun Shanaka offering resistance. His 34-run knock, though determined, was insufficient to alter the outcome.
The hosts’ highest partnerships were merely 23 runs for both the fifth and sixth wickets, reflecting the complete dominance exerted by Zimbabwe’s seamers and fielders throughout the innings.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe’s clinical performance — highlighted by disciplined batting, incisive pace bowling and strong fielding — made the 162-run target appear far more daunting than anticipated. The emphatic 67-run win not only revitalises Zimbabwe’s campaign in the tri-series but also stands as a landmark triumph in their T20I history. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will need to reassess their approach after a rare off day across departments.