SL vs ZIM: Zimbabwe chase Lions’ 178 ahead of T20 WC Super Eight clashes, Brian Bennett stars

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe delivered an emphatic finish as Zimbabwe chased down a challenging 178 to win by 8 wickets with 11 balls remaining, gaining crucial momentum ahead of the T20 World Cup Super Eight clashes.

Earlier, Sri Lanka posted a competitive 178-7 in their 20 overs, powered by a solid top-order effort. Pathum Nissanka led the charge with a fluent 62 off 41 balls, setting the tone early, while Kusal Perera added 22. Kamindu Mendis contributed a steady 14, but it was Pavan Rathnayake’s aggressive 44 off 25 balls that gave the innings late impetus. Dunith Wellalage chipped in with a quick 15, helping Sri Lanka finish strongly despite regular wickets.

Zimbabwe’s bowling unit managed to contain the damage in the latter stages, with Blessing Muzarabani and Sikandar Raza picking up key wickets, while Wellington Masakadza and Graeme Cremer kept things tight through the middle overs.

In response, Zimbabwe produced a composed and clinical chase. Brian Bennett starred with a crucial 43, anchoring the innings, while Tadiwanashe Marumani provided early stability with 34. The highlight, however, was Sikandar Raza’s explosive unbeaten 62 off just 32 balls, which sealed the game comfortably.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers, including Dilshan Madushanka, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dasun Shanaka, failed to build sustained pressure as Zimbabwe maintained control throughout the chase. Despite early breakthroughs, the Lions could not stop the flow of runs.

Zimbabwe’s total of 182-2 in 18.1 overs underlined their dominance with the bat, completing a comprehensive chase and sending a strong message ahead of the next stage of the tournament.