Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Match Preview: 5th T20I of Pakistan T20I TriSeries 2025

Match Details

• Match: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, 5th T20I of Pakistan T20I TriSeries 2025
• Date: Wednesday, 25 November 2025
• Time: 13:00 GMT | 18:30 IST | 18:00 Local Time
• Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi, Pakistan

Match Context and Significance

The 5th T20I between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe is a high-stakes encounter in the Pakistan T20I TriSeries 2025. With just one game left before the final, both teams are vying for crucial points in the standings. A win for Zimbabwe would secure their place in the final against Pakistan, while Sri Lanka must avoid a loss to keep their hopes alive.

Sri Lanka, led by captain Dasun Shanaka, have shown glimpses of strong all-round performance, particularly with the spin-led attack spearheaded by Wanindu Hasaranga. On the other hand, Zimbabwe are riding high on the back of a recent victory over Sri Lanka and will be eager to make it two wins in a row.

Team Form and Strengths

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's batting unit features a mix of experienced and explosive performers, with Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Charith Asalanka providing solid depth. The middle order is bolstered by the all-round threat of Hasaranga and the pace of Dushmantha Chameera.

Their bowling attack is one of the best in the tournament, with Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana offering tight lines and match-winning spells. Sri Lanka's balance across departments gives them a strong edge in tight contests.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe rely heavily on their senior stars like Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams, and Ryan Burl to perform consistently. Raza has been their key all-rounder, while Burl’s power-hitting at the death is a major asset. With the ball, Richard Ngarava and Brad Evans have been effective with their pace and control.

However, Zimbabwe have been inconsistent in the middle overs and lack the depth to cope with long innings. That said, their recent win over Sri Lanka has given them a psychological boost.

Key Players to Watch

Sri Lanka

• Pathum Nissanka: Sri Lanka’s opening mainstay, with a healthy strike rate and boundary-scoring ability.
• Wanindu Hasaranga: The match-winner with his leg-breaks and lower-order hitting.
• Kusal Mendis: A top-order anchor who can accelerate the innings when needed.
• Matheesha Pathirana: A death-overs specialist with a knack for picking up key wickets.

Zimbabwe

• Sikandar Raza: A consistent all-rounder who can change the game with both bat and ball.
• Ryan Burl: Zimbabwe’s finisher with explosive power-hitting capabilities.
• Richard Ngarava: A wicket-taking machine who can trouble the opposition in crucial phases.
• Brian Bennett: The run-machine who can anchor the innings and accelerate when needed.

Venue & Pitch Report

• Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
• Pitch Conditions: Batting-friendly with even bounce and minimal assistance to bowlers.
• Ideal Score: 175–190
• Toss Importance: The toss is expected to be a key factor, with batting first offering a 56% win rate.

Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)

• Sri Lanka: 3 wins
• Zimbabwe: 2 wins

Zimbabwe’s recent victory over Sri Lanka has given them confidence, but the Lankans have the edge in the overall head-to-head.

Match Prediction

The Rawalpindi pitch is expected to favor the batters, and both teams have the firepower to post big totals. However, Sri Lanka's balanced squad and experience in tight T20I contests give them a slight edge. The match is expected to be a high-scoring affair with fireworks from both ends.

• Toss Winner: Sri Lanka
• Match Winner: Sri Lanka (55%)
• Top Batter: Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka)
• Top Bowler: Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
• Player of the Match: Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)

Fantasy Cricket Tips

Top Picks

• Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) – All-rounder with high impact
• Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe) – Key all-rounder
• Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka) – Anchor with big-hitting ability
• Richard Ngarava (Zimbabwe) – Match-winning bowler

Captain & Vice-Captain Choices

• Captain: Wanindu Hasaranga
• Vice-Captain: Sikandar Raza

Budget Picks

• Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka) – Death-overs specialist
• Ryan Burl (Zimbabwe) – Power-hitting finisher

Weather and Match Conditions

• Temperature: 18–22°C
• Humidity: Moderate
• Rain Chance: 0%
• Expected Match Play: 100% of the match likely to be played without interruptions.

Final Thoughts

With the pressure mounting and both teams needing a win to advance, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter. Sri Lanka's depth and balanced attack give them the edge, but Zimbabwe’s recent form and explosive batting could make it a tight contest. One thing is certain — the fans in Rawalpindi are in for a treat.

Disclaimer: This match preview is based on current form, past performance, and venue analysis. Actual match outcomes may vary due to in-game conditions and team strategy.
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