Zimbabwe continued its remarkable T20 World Cup campaign by defeating co-host Sri Lanka by six wickets in Colombo. The win keeps Zimbabwe unbeaten as they advance confidently into the Super Eights stage.
Chasing a challenging total of 179, Zimbabwe finished at 182-4 with three balls to spare at the R. Premadasa Stadium. The team’s disciplined batting and strategic partnerships proved decisive in securing the victory.
Key Contributions from Raza and Bennett
Captain Sikandar Raza played a crucial role in the chase, scoring 45 runs and stabilizing the innings. His aggressive approach, including 20 runs off a single over from leg-spinner Dushan Hemantha, swung the match in Zimbabwe’s favor.
Brian Bennett, the opener, played an outstanding unbeaten innings of 63 runs. Alongside Raza, Bennett added a 69-run partnership off 40 balls for the third wicket, anchoring the chase effectively.
Tony Munyonga also contributed by hitting a six in the final over, calming the nerves as Zimbabwe approached the target. The team’s coordinated approach and clear role assignments were praised by Raza, who was named player of the match.
Zimbabwe’s Group Stage Performance
Zimbabwe entered the T20 World Cup ranked 11th in the world but has impressed by defeating former champions Australia in an earlier match. They also beat Oman and earned shared points against Ireland when the game was washed out.
This victory over Sri Lanka represents Zimbabwe’s second-highest successful run chase in T20 internationals, underlining the team’s growing confidence and resilience.
Sri Lanka’s Efforts
Sri Lanka, batting first, relied heavily on Pathum Nissanka, who scored 62 off 47 balls. Nissanka became the first centurion of the tournament against Australia earlier and now equals Mahela Jayawardene for the most fifties by a Sri Lankan in T20 World Cups.
Wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis expressed optimism for the upcoming Super Eights matches, aiming to secure a semi-final berth. Sri Lanka will face England in Kandy on Sunday, while Zimbabwe takes on the West Indies in Mumbai on Monday.
Looking Ahead
Zimbabwe’s unbeaten streak makes them one of the most exciting teams in this edition of the T20 World Cup. Their combination of aggressive batting, disciplined partnerships, and tactical awareness has given them significant momentum heading into the Super Eights.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka will seek to regroup and strengthen their campaign with three key matches ahead, relying on experienced players to guide them toward the semi-finals.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s stunning six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka highlights their rising stature in world cricket and sets the stage for a thrilling Super Eights phase.
