SL vs ZIM (2nd T20I) – Highlights
Zimbabwe secured a convincing five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I at Harare on September 6, 2025, to level the series in style. Sikandar Raza once again demonstrated why he is considered Zimbabwe’s talisman, delivering a game-changing performance with both ball and in the field. By snaring 3 wickets for 11 and pulling off two stunning catches, he completely unsettled Sri Lanka, giving the hosts the upper hand. Chasing a modest target of 81, Zimbabwe overcame early hiccups to reach 84 for five in 14.2 overs, winning with 34 balls to spare.
From the start, Sri Lanka struggled to break through Zimbabwe’s disciplined attack. The innings never took off as wickets fell regularly. Sri Lanka’s top order faltered immediately, losing Mendis and Nissanka cheaply for 1 and 8 runs. At that point, the visitors were teetering at 17 for two. Mishara did enter the stage and scored 20 runs off 20 balls, but fell into a serious collapse of the top order. Captain Charith Asalanka joined in with 18 runs from 23 balls faced, but the Sri Lankans’ middle order batters had no answers to Zimbabwe’s spinners.
Sikandar Raza was the star with the ball, removing Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Dushmantha Chameera to derail Sri Lanka’s innings completely. Brad Evans also impressed, claiming three wickets for 15 runs, while Blessing Muzarabani chipped in with two crucial scalps. Sri Lanka managed only 80 runs before being bowled out in 17.4 overs, highlighting their difficulties on a testing surface. Only three batters managed to reach double figures, with Dasun Shanaka contributing 15.
In response, Zimbabwe’s chase had its own drama, as Dushmantha Chameera’s fiery spell gave Sri Lanka hope. Chameera dismissed Tadiwanashe Marumani, Sean Williams, and Raza in quick succession to reduce Zimbabwe to 27 for three. The duo of Burl and Musekiwa showed remarkable composure, navigating the team home in a tense chase. Burl’s composed 20 not out off 22 balls steadied the innings, while Musekiwa’s attacking 21 off 14 balls ensured Zimbabwe crossed the line comfortably. Earlier, Brian Bennett had laid a decent platform with 19 runs at the top of the order, although his wicket briefly opened the door for Sri Lanka.
The victory was a testament to Zimbabwe’s bowling depth and their ability to hold their nerve in tense situations. Raza’s all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award, while Zimbabwe’s fielding also played a vital role, with key catches that stopped Sri Lanka from building partnerships. The series is now evenly poised, setting up a thrilling decider.
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Scoreboard
Sri Lanka – 80/10 (17.4/20)
Zimbabwe – 84/5 (14.2/20)
Result – Zimbabwe won by 5 wickets (with 34 balls remaining)
Player of the Match – Sikandar Raza
Sikandar Raza
SL vs ZIM Playing XIs
Sri Lanka | Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando. |
Zimbabwe | Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani. |
