Zimbabwe Crush Sri Lanka by 67 Runs in Rawalpindi Tri-Series Clash

Zimbabwe produced a superb all-round performance to dismantle Sri Lanka by 67 runs in the second match of the men's T20I tri-series in Rawalpindi, defending a total of 162 for 8 before bowling out the opposition for just 95.

After a disappointing loss to Pakistan in their opening fixture, Zimbabwe bounced back in emphatic style. Brian Bennett (49) and Sikandar Raza (47) set the tone with a brisk 61-run stand off 44 balls, laying the foundation for a competitive total. Although Zimbabwe faltered slightly at the finish—managing only 22 runs in the final three overs—the early work was enough. Sri Lanka’s bowlers had their moments, with debutant Eshan Malinga claiming an impressive 2 for 27 and Wanindu Hasaranga returning 3 for 32.

Put in to bat, Zimbabwe made their intentions clear from the outset. Bennett continued his run of form, attacking inside the powerplay before Sri Lanka struck back through Maheesh Theekshana and Malinga. Raza promoted himself up the order, stabilising the innings and pushing the scoring rate with a composed yet forceful innings featuring three fours and two sixes. A sharp running catch from stand-in captain Dasun Shanaka eventually ended Raza’s stay, preventing Zimbabwe from pushing towards 180.

Sri Lanka’s reply never gathered momentum. Their batting line-up collapsed under the pressure of disciplined Zimbabwean bowling, producing their lowest powerplay score of 2025—25 for 2. Early dismissals of Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera set the tone, but the real damage came through a prolonged period of stagnation. A 19-run stand between Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Kusal Mendis consumed 26 deliveries, tightening Zimbabwe’s grip.

Amid mounting pressure, a disastrous mix-up saw Mendis run out, and Rajapaksa—returning to the side—fell shortly after. Sri Lanka found themselves five down inside 11 overs, with only Shanaka exhibiting resistance through a gritty 34 off 25. Once he edged behind off Ryan Burl, the chase unraveled completely.

Brad Evans was the standout among Zimbabwe’s bowlers, finishing with remarkable figures of 3 for 9, while Richard Ngarava supported with 2 for 15. All six Zimbabwe bowlers contributed to the wickets tally, epitomising their collective discipline and planning.

Sri Lanka’s innings limped to a close as Evans sealed the win by removing the final wicket on the last ball of the match.

With this dominant victory, Zimbabwe revitalised their campaign and injected fresh intrigue into the tri-series.