Nissanka Century Powers Sri Lanka to Series Sweep Over Zimbabwe

Pathum Nissanka’s sublime century led Sri Lanka to a five-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the second and final ODI, sealing a 2-0 series sweep in Harare. Chasing a competitive 278, Sri Lanka reached the target with three balls to spare, thanks to a composed 122 from Nissanka and a brisk 71 from captain Charith Asalanka.

Put in to bat, Zimbabwe posted 277 for 7, riding on a solid top-order performance and a late flourish from Sikandar Raza. Opener Ben Curran anchored the innings with a measured 79 off 95 balls, providing stability as the pitch slowed down through the middle overs. Brendan Taylor and Sean Williams contributed valuable runs, but it was Raza’s unbeaten 59 off 55 deliveries that propelled the hosts to a competitive total. Raza’s aggressive strokeplay in the final overs, including a towering six off Dushmantha Chameera, gave Zimbabwe much-needed momentum.

For Sri Lanka, Chameera led the bowling attack with figures of 3 for 52, while Asitha Fernando made a key breakthrough with two wickets in a single over, ending with 2 for 67.

In response, Sri Lanka lost two early wickets but Nissanka steadied the chase with a controlled knock, hitting 16 boundaries in his 136-ball innings. He added 78 runs with Sadeera Samarawickrama for the third wicket before joining forces with Asalanka in a crucial 90-run partnership that turned the game in Sri Lanka’s favour.

Asalanka played the aggressor’s role, scoring 71 off just 61 balls to put the pressure back on Zimbabwe’s bowlers. Although Zimbabwe fought back with late wickets—Richard Ngarava removing both Nissanka and Asalanka in quick succession—the visitors held their nerve. Kamindu Mendis and Janith Liyanage ensured there were no last-minute hiccups, guiding Sri Lanka home in the final over.

Match Summary:

Zimbabwe 277/7 in 50 overs
(Ben Curran 79, Sikandar Raza 59*; Dushmantha Chameera 3/52, Asitha Fernando 2/67)

Sri Lanka 278/5 in 49.3 overs
(Pathum Nissanka 122, Charith Asalanka 71; Richard Ngarava 2/53, Brad Evans 2/54)

Result: Sri Lanka won by 5 wickets
Series: Sri Lanka won the 2-match series 2-0

Sri Lanka’s clean sweep further underlines their growing consistency in ODI cricket, while Zimbabwe will take heart from some strong individual performances despite falling short in both games.