Zimbabwe continued their impressive journey in the T20 World Cup 2026 by securing a thrilling six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in their 38th match, topping Group B with three wins.
Sri Lanka batted first and set a competitive target of 178 for 7 on a pitch that became more challenging as the game progressed. Pathum Nissanka spearheaded the effort with 62 runs off 41 balls. Pavan Rathnayake contributed significantly towards the end with a quickfire 44 off 25 deliveries. For Zimbabwe, Graeme Cremer stood out with the ball, taking two wickets for 27 runs in his four overs.
Zimbabwe started their chase steadily, with both openers displaying patience and finding boundaries to maintain the required run rate. When captain Sikandar Raza came to the crease, he injected energy into the innings with a swift 45 off 26 balls before getting out at a pivotal moment.
The match intensified as Zimbabwe entered the final over needing eight runs to win. Tony Munyonga eased the pressure with a well-timed six, while Brian Bennett, who has been consistent throughout the tournament, finished not out on 63 off 48 balls, hitting the winning boundary to clinch the match.
Top batting performance: Sikandar Raza
Sikandar Raza was crucial for Zimbabwe, scoring 45 off 26 balls at a strike rate of 173. His aggressive batting significantly shifted the momentum during the chase, helping Zimbabwe to stay in control as they approached the target.
Top bowling performance: Graeme Cremer
Graeme Cremer excelled with the ball, maintaining control and an economy rate of 6.8. He only gave away 27 runs while taking two vital wickets, applying pressure on Sri Lanka during their innings.
Records Broken and Major Milestones Achieved
- Zimbabwe hit seven sixes during their innings, the most they have ever hit in a single T20 World Cup match.
- The chase marked the second-highest successful run chase at Colombo RPS in T20Is.
- It also ranks as the second-highest successful run chase against Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup history.
- This was the second-highest target Zimbabwe has ever chased in T20Is.
- Brian Bennett became the first Zimbabwe batter to score consecutive 50-plus scores in the T20 World Cup.
Who was the Player of the Match?
Sikandar Raza was awarded Player of the Match for his key role in the chase, scoring 45 off 26 balls and shifting momentum at a crucial point in the game.
When is the next match?
Sri Lanka will face England in the Super Eight stage at Pallekele on February 22, starting at 3 PM. Zimbabwe’s Super Eight matches will kick off on February 23 against the West Indies in Mumbai at 7 PM.
