Zimbabwe continued their remarkable run in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, defeating Sri Lanka by six wickets in Colombo after having already overcome Australia earlier in the group stage. The victory not only underlined their growing stature in the format but also ensured their progression to the Super Eight as Group B leaders.
Having won the toss, Sri Lanka elected to bat first and posted a competitive total of 178 for 7. Their innings began in explosive fashion, largely driven by Pathum Nissanka, who anchored the innings with a fluent 62. Sri Lanka raced to 61 runs within the first six overs, signalling an imposing total. However, their momentum faltered in the middle overs, as Zimbabwe’s bowlers tightened their grip. It took Sri Lanka another six overs to reach the 100-run mark, and although they added 78 runs in the final eight overs, the innings never quite reached its full potential.
Zimbabwe’s leg-spinner Graeme Cremer played a crucial role with the ball, claiming two wickets for 27 runs, disrupting Sri Lanka’s rhythm at key moments.
In response, Zimbabwe approached the chase with composure and intent. Openers laid a solid platform, with Brian Bennett once again proving his consistency. He remained unbeaten on 63 from 48 deliveries, following his match-winning 64 not out against Australia. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a healthy scoring rate proved vital.
Support came from Tadiwanashe Marumani, who scored a brisk 34 off 26 balls, and Ryan Burl, whose quickfire 23 off just 12 deliveries injected momentum during the latter stages of the chase.
However, it was captain Sikandar Raza who once again demonstrated his leadership and match-winning prowess. Walking in when Zimbabwe still required 81 runs from 50 balls, Raza scored a composed yet aggressive 45 from 26 deliveries. His innings shifted the pressure back onto Sri Lanka and kept Zimbabwe firmly on course.
At the time of his dismissal, Zimbabwe needed just 12 runs from 10 balls. A brief slowdown followed, leaving eight runs required in the final over bowled by Maheesh Theekshana. Tony Munyonga then sealed the contest in emphatic fashion, striking a six off the very first ball of the over, effectively ending Sri Lanka’s hopes. Zimbabwe completed the chase with three balls to spare, marking their second-highest successful run chase in T20 internationals.
Match Summary
| Category | Sri Lanka | Zimbabwe |
|---|---|---|
| Total | 178/7 (20 overs) | 179/4 (19.3 overs) |
| Top Scorer | Pathum Nissanka – 62 | Brian Bennett – 63* |
| Key Contribution | Late acceleration | Strong partnerships |
| Best Bowler | – | Graeme Cremer – 2/27 |
| Result | Lost | Won by 6 wickets |
Analysis
Zimbabwe’s triumph over two former world champions in the same group stage is a significant statement. Their balanced performance—disciplined bowling combined with calculated batting—has made them one of the tournament’s most compelling sides.
Sri Lanka, by contrast, will reflect on missed opportunities, particularly their inability to capitalise on a strong start. The middle overs proved decisive, where a lack of acceleration cost them a potentially match-winning total.
With momentum firmly on their side, Zimbabwe now enter the Super Eight phase brimming with confidence, having demonstrated that they can compete with—and defeat—the very best in T20 cricket.