Zimbabwe bounced back from their opening loss to Pakistan with a dominant 67-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I of the tri-series in Rawalpindi.
Chasing 163, Sri Lanka’s batting collapsed under a disciplined Zimbabwe attack, finishing at 95 all out. Stand-in captain Dasun Shanaka top-scored with 34, while Brad Evans starred with the ball, claiming 3 for 9. Richard Ngarava added 2 for 15 as Zimbabwe’s bowlers shared the wickets to perfection.
Zimbabwe’s innings was anchored by Brian Bennett (49) and Sikandar Raza (47), who combined for a 61-run stand off just 44 balls to set a competitive total of 162 for 8. Debutant Eshan Malinga impressed with 2 for 27, while Wanindu Hasaranga picked up 3 for 32 for Sri Lanka.
The chase never recovered after an early flurry of wickets. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera fell cheaply in the powerplay, and a top-order collapse left Sri Lanka reeling at 6 for 2. Miscommunication and tight Zimbabwe fielding further compounded their woes, with key dismissals of Rajapaksa, Mendis, and Shanaka ensuring Zimbabwe maintained control throughout.
Evans sealed the victory with a final over wicket, completing a remarkable team performance. The win keeps Zimbabwe in the hunt for the tri-series while putting Sri Lanka under pressure ahead of the final match.
