Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe seek momentum ahead of stiffer challenges

Both teams remain unbeaten, making this a key clash to build momentum before the Super Eights.

For Zimbabwe, reaching the Super Eights is already an improvement, but captain Sikandar Raza has emphasized they aim for more. After famously eliminating Australia, they seek a confidence-boosting win against the co-hosts to top Group B.

Sri Lanka, however, present a formidable challenge. They are coming off a comprehensive victory, with Pathum Nissanka playing a standout knock and Kusal Mendis in strong form. Pavan Rathnayake has also emerged as a surprise contributor.

Injury concerns persist for Sri Lanka, with Matheesha Pathirana ruled out of the tournament, following the earlier loss of Wanindu Hasaranga.

Match Details:

• When: Thursday, February 19, 3:00 PM local time
• Where: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

Conditions: The pitch has offered a relatively even contest between pace and spin so far. With a 3 PM start eliminating dew, spin could play a more prominent role. Thunderstorms are forecast and could impact the game.

Team News:

• Sri Lanka: Dilshan Madushanka has replaced Pathirana, but Pramod Madushan is likely to start. Sri Lanka are expected to stick with their winning combination.
  • Probable XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Pramod Madushan
• Zimbabwe: Richard Ngarava is expected to return after being rested as a precaution. Graeme Cremer could miss out, and Blessing Muzarabani might also be rested for an additional spinner.
  • Probable XI: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani

Quotes:

"He [Kamil Mishara] is a quality player, but form comes into question… KJP [Kusal Perera] is a quality player who can play a very impactful knock. One failure doesn't change anything." – Vikram Rathour, Sri Lanka's batting consultant.

"The Super Eight goals were set by you… as a minimum requirement. When Zimbabwe set out, we didn't set a goal to just qualify. We've got other goals to achieve." – Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza.