Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe T20 World Cup 2026 Match Preview – February 19, 2026

Match Details

• Match: SL vs ZIM • 38th Match, Group B
• Tournament: ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026
• Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026
• Time: 9:30 AM GMT / 3:00 PM Local
• Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Match Preview

The 38th match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 promises to be an intriguing encounter as Sri Lanka faces Zimbabwe at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Both teams have already secured their spots in the Super 8 stage, but this match still holds significance in determining their seeding for the next round.

Sri Lanka, coming off a clinical win over Australia, is in excellent form and is led by the dynamic Dasun Shanaka. With a balanced squad featuring explosive openers like Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera, as well as a potent spin and pace attack, Sri Lanka is a team to be reckoned with. Nissanka, in particular, has been in scintillating form, scoring a century in their last match and emerging as a key figure in the batting lineup.

Zimbabwe, captained by Sikandar Raza, has shown glimpses of brilliance in the tournament. Their last match was abandoned due to weather, so they will be eager to get back on the field and make a statement. With a lethal bowling attack featuring Blessing Muzarabani, Graeme Cremer, and Dion Myers, Zimbabwe has the firepower to dismantle any batting line-up. The middle order, led by Tony Munyonga and Ryan Burl, also has the potential to accelerate the run chase.

Venue and Pitch Report

R. Premadasa Stadium, known for its vibrant atmosphere and passionate crowd, is expected to provide a balanced pitch. The early overs will likely favor the pacers, with some movement on offer, while the spinners may come into play as the game progresses. The humidity is at 77%, which could assist spinners in the latter stages of the match.

• Batting Conditions: 45%
• Bowling Conditions: 55%

Playing XI Prediction

Sri Lanka (Probable XI)

1. Pathum Nissanka
2. Kusal Perera
3. Kusal Mendis (wk)
4. Pavan Rathnayake
5. Dhananjaya de Silva
6. Dasun Shanaka (c)
7. Dunith Wellalage
8. Maheesh Theekshana
9. Dushmantha Chameera
10. Wanindu Hasaranga
11. Praveen Mendis

Bench: Charith Asalanka, Kamil Mishara, Janith Liyanage, Matheesha Pathirana

Zimbabwe (Probable XI)

1. Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk)
2. Brian Bennett
3. Ryan Burl
4. Sikandar Raza (c)
5. Tony Munyonga
6. Tashinga Musekiwa
7. Dion Myers
8. Bradley Evans
9. Wellington Masakadza
10. Blessing Muzarabani
11. Graeme Cremer

Bench: Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maphosa, Richard Ngarava, Brendan Taylor

Key Players to Watch

• Pathum Nissanka (SL | BATTER): Nissanka has been in sensational form, scoring 137 runs in the previous match. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes him a key player for Sri Lanka.

• Kusal Mendis (SL | WK-BATTER): Mendis has been the backbone of Sri Lanka's batting, scoring 168 runs so far in the tournament. His consistency and composure under pressure are vital for the team.

• Sikandar Raza (ZIM | CAPTAIN): Raza is the heartbeat of the Zimbabwe side. His all-round contributions with both bat and ball have been pivotal for the team's success so far.

• Blessing Muzarabani (ZIM | Pacer): The seamer has the ability to break partnerships and pick crucial wickets. His yorkers and ability to swing the ball will be crucial for Zimbabwe's bowling attack.

Toss and Match Prediction

Toss Prediction: The toss is expected to go in favor of Sri Lanka, given their home advantage and the current form of their team.

Match Prediction: While Sri Lanka is in great form and has the firepower to dominate, Zimbabwe’s bowling unit and lower-order strength could make this a tight contest. However, the home advantage and the current momentum should give Sri Lanka the edge in this match.

Predicted Winner: Sri Lanka

Fantasy Cricket Tips

• Captaincy Pick: Pathum Nissanka
• Vice-Captaincy Pick: Kusal Mendis
• Avoid: Tinotenda Maphosa (ZIM | ALL-ROUNDER) – Limited impact in recent matches.

Stay tuned for live updates and scorecard as the match unfolds. This promises to be an exciting T20 encounter with both teams vying to end their group stage on a high.
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