Zimbabwe defeated hosts Sri Lanka by chasing 179 runs in their last group stage game at the Premadasa Stadium to finish unbeaten and secure top position in Group B.
It was their second major win of the tournament, achieved through disciplined bowling and composed batting on a sluggish surface that tested stroke-making throughout both innings.
Sri Lanka’s innings in three phases
Sri Lanka raced to 54 without loss in 4.5 overs, but Zimbabwe’s bowlers pulled them back, restricting the hosts to 178 after steady middle overs.
The innings unfolded in three clear phases, beginning with a brisk start, followed by consolidation that produced 82 runs for four wickets, before a late push yielded 42 runs.
Pathum Nissanka struck 62 from 41 deliveries, while Pavan Rathnayake added 44 from 25 balls to lift Sri Lanka during the closing stages.
Bennett anchors, Raza accelerates
Zimbabwe’s chase revolved around opener Brian Bennett, who scored 63 from 48 balls and remained unbeaten, maintaining stability as wickets fell around him.
The asking rate climbed beyond eleven runs per over before captain Sikandar Raza shifted momentum decisively with a counterattacking 45 from just 26 deliveries.
Late drama seals Zimbabwe triumph
Ryan Burl contributed 23 from 12 balls, while Tadiwanashe Marumani provided early impetus as Zimbabwe reached 55 without loss inside the powerplay overs.
Sri Lanka fought back through Dunith Wellalage and Dushan Hemantha, but disciplined batting kept Zimbabwe within touching distance entering the final overs.
Raza fell with twelve required from ten balls, yet Zimbabwe held their nerve as Tony Munyonga struck a decisive six to seal their second-highest successful T20 international chase.
Zimbabwe’s unbeaten run in Group B confirmed their position at the top of the table, while Sri Lanka were left reflecting on a contest that shifted sharply after their promising start.
