Sri Lanka roared back into the tri-series with a commanding nine-wicket win over Zimbabwe in Rawalpindi, powered by a stunning unbeaten 98 from Pathum Nissanka. Chasing 147 in a must-win match, Sri Lanka cruised home in just 16.2 overs to snap a five-match T20I losing streak.
Nissanka was unstoppable from ball one, hammering 11 fours and four sixes in a 58-ball masterclass. Supported by Kusal Mendis’ steady 25*, the opener controlled the chase completely, finishing the match with a massive pull over square leg that sealed victory and almost cost him a chance at a century.
Earlier, Sri Lanka’s spinners tightened the screws as Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga produced identical figures of 2 for 23 to keep Zimbabwe to a below-par 146 for 5. Despite late hitting from Ryan Burl, Zimbabwe never found the momentum needed to stretch Sri Lanka.
The result sets up a blockbuster showdown against Pakistan, where a win will send Sri Lanka straight into the tri-series final.
