Sri Lanka Wins Toss and Decides to Bat First Against Zimbabwe in T20I Tri-Series Opener

In an exciting start to the T20I tri-series in Rawalpindi, Zimbabwe claimed victory over Sri Lanka by 67 runs. The match took place on November 20, 2025, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, marking a significant moment in the tournament for both teams.

Sri Lanka vs. Zimbabwe: Match Highlights

• Date: November 20, 2025
• Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
• Result: Zimbabwe won by 67 runs

Zimabwe’s Innings

Batting first, Zimbabwe posted a total of 162 runs for 8 wickets in their 20 overs. Their innings began shakily, losing opener Tadiwanashe Marumani for just 10 runs early in the fourth over.

Experienced batsman Brendan Taylor scored 11 runs before falling to Sri Lanka’s Eshan Malinga, leaving Zimbabwe at 40 runs for 2 wickets. Skipper Sikandar Raza and Brian Bennett then stabilized the innings with a crucial 61-run partnership.

Raza was Zimbabwe’s standout player, scoring 47 runs off 32 balls, featuring five fours and two sixes. Although the team faced setbacks later in their innings, Raza’s performance helped steer them to a solid score.

Sri Lanka’s Bowling Performance

• Wanindu Hasaranga: 3 wickets for 32 runs
• Eshan Malinga: 2 wickets
• Maheesh Theekshana: 1 wicket
• Dushmantha Chameera: 1 wicket

Sri Lanka’s Response

Chasing 163 runs, Sri Lanka struggled significantly and was bowled out for 95 runs in 20 overs. Captain Dasun Shanaka emerged as the top scorer for Sri Lanka, scoring 34 runs off 25 balls. Unfortunately, he lacked support, with only Bhanuka Rajapaksa contributing 11 runs.

Zimbabwe’s bowling attack was dominant. Brad Evans shone with the ball, taking 3 wickets for just 9 runs in four overs. Richard Ngarava also made a notable contribution with 2 wickets, while four other bowlers claimed one wicket each.

Conclusion

This match marked a strong start for Zimbabwe in the T20I tri-series. Their disciplined bowling and critical partnerships provided them with a substantial win over Sri Lanka, raising their confidence as the series progresses.

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