Zimbabwe Stun Sri Lanka with 67-Run T20 Victory
Zimbabwe Stun Sri Lanka with Thumping 67-Run Victory in T20 Tri-Series
In a stunning display of all-round cricket, Zimbabwe recorded their biggest-ever T20 victory against a full-member nation, defeating Sri Lanka by 67 runs in the second match of the tri-series in Rawalpindi.
Match Summary
Brian Bennett 49, Sikandar Raza 47
Wanindu Hasaranga 3/32, Eshan Malinga 2/27
Dasun Shanaka 34
Brad Evans 3/9, Richard Ngarava 2/11
Result: Zimbabwe won by 67 runs
Zimbabwe's Batting Sets Competitive Total
After being put into bat first, Zimbabwe posted 162/8, with Brian Bennett scoring 49 and captain Sikandar Raza contributing 47 runs. The pair put on a crucial 61-run partnership for the third wicket after early setbacks.
Sri Lanka's bowling was led by captain Wanindu Hasaranga who took 3/32, while Eshan Malinga supported with 2/27. Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe managed to set a competitive target.
Dominant Bowling Seals Historic Win
Zimbabwe's bowlers produced a magnificent performance, defending 162 comfortably and bowling Sri Lanka out for just 95 runs.
Bowling Highlights:
- Richard Ngarava struck in the first over, removing Pathum Nissanka
- Tinotenda Maposa claimed Kusal Perera in the second over
- Brad Evans delivered match-winning figures of 3/9 in 4 overs
- Kusal Mendis was run out in the 7th over
Sri Lanka's Batting Collapse
Sri Lanka's chase never gained momentum, collapsing to 25/3 within the first seven overs. Dasun Shanaka fought a lone battle with 34 runs, but lacked support from other batsmen.
The joint-highest partnership was only 23 runs, highlighting the complete dominance of Zimbabwe's bowling attack throughout the innings.
Historical Significance
This victory marks Zimbabwe's third T20I win over Sri Lanka and their biggest-ever margin of victory against a full-member nation in the T20 format.