In an impressive display of cricket, Sri Lanka emerged victorious against Zimbabwe by 29 runs in the second T20I match held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pathum Nissanka played a pivotal role for the Sri Lankan side, scoring a fluent 54 runs, leading the team to a solid total of 185 for 6. The Zimbabwean innings struggled to find momentum, ultimately bowled out for 156, largely due to Wanindu Hasaranga’s outstanding three-wicket performance.
The pitch at Rawalpindi proved to be conducive for batting, offering good bounce and pace which rewarded players who were able to play grounded shots. Though it challenged mistimed attempts, the quick outfield facilitated boundary scoring, while spinners were able to extract grip during the middle overs. With temperatures around 32°C and light winds adding to the perfect playing conditions, dew late in the game influenced the latter stages of the chase.
Winning the toss, Sri Lanka chose to bat first, aiming to set an imposing target. The innings was kick-started by an impressive opening partnership of 90 runs between Nissanka and Kusal Mendis. Nissanka’s contribution came off just 38 balls, punctuated with both elegant boundaries and smart running. Support from Kusal Perera, who scored 22 runs, and contributions from Janith Liyanage and Kamindu Mendis in the middle overs helped Sri Lanka conclude their innings at 185 runs. Notably, extras accounted for a substantial 34 runs, adding further pressure on Zimbabwe’s response.
Zimbabwe began their innings with encouraging signs as Brian Bennett (32) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (28) played positively in the powerplay. Brendan Taylor attempted to provide stability with 24 runs, while Sikandar Raza contributed 18. However, Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, led by Hasaranga, proved too much for Zimbabwe, as his wickets dismantled any blossoming partnerships. Maheesh Theekshana maintained tight bowling, further stifling Zimbabwe’s scoring rate. Late-game strikes from Dushmantha Chameera ensured that Zimbabwe’s innings ended prematurely at 156 runs, concluding in just 19.4 overs.
Sri Lanka’s blend of top-order resilience and devastating spin bowling was the key to their triumph, proving too formidable for Zimbabwe, despite their sporadic moments of resistance.
Pathum Nissanka was rightfully awarded Player of the Match for his crucial 54 runs, which laid the foundation for a strong total and facilitated Sri Lanka’s comprehensive victory.