Zimbabwe delivered another composed performance at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, defeating Sri Lanka by six wickets in their final Group B fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Chasing 179, the visitors reached 182/4 with three deliveries to spare, underlining their growing confidence ahead of the Super Eight stage.
Match Summary
- Sri Lanka: 178/7 (20 overs)
- Zimbabwe: 182/4 (19.3 overs)
- Result: Zimbabwe won by 6 wickets
Sri Lanka’s Strong Start Fades
After being asked to set a target, Sri Lanka began aggressively. Their openers stitched together a brisk partnership, racing past fifty inside the powerplay. Pathum Nissanka anchored the innings with a fluent half-century, combining timing with placement to keep the scoreboard moving.
However, once the field spread and pace variations were introduced, Zimbabwe gradually regained control. The middle overs saw reduced scoring opportunities as disciplined bowling applied pressure. Though Pavan Rathnayake provided late acceleration, Sri Lanka finished slightly short of a commanding total on a surface that slowed down as the game progressed.
Bennett Anchors, Raza Finishes
Zimbabwe’s pursuit was built on composure. Brian Bennett played a mature innings, remaining unbeaten while carefully pacing the chase. He rotated strike effectively and ensured the required rate never spiralled beyond reach.
The decisive momentum shift came through captain Sikandar Raza. His counterattacking strokeplay in the latter half of the innings dismantled Sri Lanka’s spin threat and brought the equation firmly in Zimbabwe’s favour. Support from Ryan Burl and Tadiwanashe Marumani ensured the pressure stayed on the hosts.
Despite a brief late twist, Zimbabwe maintained control and sealed victory with calm execution in the final over.
Top Performers
- Brian Bennett (Zimbabwe): 63* (48)
- Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe): 45 (26)
- Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka): 62 (41)
- Blessing Muzarabani (Zimbabwe): Key breakthrough in powerplay
What This Means
Although both teams had already secured qualification for the next round, this result gives Zimbabwe significant momentum. Finishing the group phase with authority reinforces their tactical clarity and resilience.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will look to address middle-over scoring concerns before entering the Super Eight stage.
Zimbabwe’s steady rise continues to reshape expectations in this tournament — and their disciplined approach suggests they are not finished yet.
