A classic subcontinental showdown is on the horizon as the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 moves to its final group stage fixtures. Co-hosts Sri Lanka face a resurgent Zimbabwe in a Match 38 clash at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium.
With both teams already having secured their spots in the Super 8s after a dramatic turn of events in Group B, most notably Zimbabwe’s stunning upset of Australia earlier in the tournament, this match is a battle for momentum and group supremacy
Sri Lankans have been clinical throughout their home campaign, looking every bit like title contenders as they maintain a perfect winning streak. Led by the experienced Dasun Shanaka, who reclaimed the captaincy just before the tournament, Sri Lanka have utilized familiar conditions to dominate their opponents. Pathum Nissanka has acted as the side’s anchor, notably coming off a brilliant century against Australia, while the bowling duo of Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana has proven lethal on the Colombo tracks.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, has emerged as the genuine giant-killers of the tournament, scripting a fairy tale with a statement 23-run victory over Australia at this very venue. Despite captain Sikandar Raza battling fitness issues and cramping during high-pressure moments, the Chevrons have displayed incredible unity to remain undefeated, barring a washout against Ireland. The heartbeat of the side remains the evergreen Raza, who continues to contribute with both bat and ball, supported by Blessing Muzarabani, who has been a revelation with his pace and bounce using the new ball.
SL vs ZIM, T20 World Cup 2026: Match details
- Date and Time: February 19; 3:00 pm IST / 9:30 am GMT
- Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
SL vs ZIM, Head-to-Head Record in T20Is
Matches played: 09 | Sri Lanka won: 07 | Zimbabwe won: 02 | No result: 0
R. Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report
The R. Premadasa Stadium surface is expected to be a traditional subcontinental black soil wicket, playing slow and two-paced as the match progresses. While a thin layer of grass might offer some early carry and bounce for seamers, the pitch will likely deteriorate quickly, offering significant grip for finger and wrist spinners. With large boundary dimensions making power-hitting difficult, batters will need to capitalize on the powerplay before the middle overs become a tactical grind. Consequently, the toss remains crucial; winning captains may prefer bowling first to avoid a difficult start on a grippy, used surface.
Squads
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Pramod Madushan
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani(w), Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza(c), Dion Myers, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Ben Curran, Clive Madande, Tinotenda Maposa
Also READ: Corbin Bosch sizzles as South Africa thrash UAE in T20 World Cup 2026
SL vs ZIM, T20 World Cup 2026: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Sri Lanka wins the toss and bowl first
- Zimbabwe’s powerplay score: 40-50
- Zimbabwe’s total score: 160-170
Case 2:
- Zimbabwe wins the toss and bowl first
- Sri Lanka’s powerplay score: 50-60
- Sri Lanka’s total score: 170-180
Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest.
Also WATCH: Sikandar Raza leads joyful celebrations after Zimbabwe’s Super 8 qualification at T20 World Cup 2026
