ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Predicted Playing XI for Match 38

Sri Lanka will take on Zimbabwe in Match No. 38 of the T20 World Cup 2026, a Group B clash at Colombo. With both teams already qualified for the Super 8 stage, the contest will decide who finishes on top of the Group B standings. Sri Lanka have been one of the most impressive sides of the tournament, winning all three of their matches so far and coming into this game on the back of a commanding victory over Australia. 

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, sealed qualification after a washed-out fixture against Ireland in their last match, earlier they defeated Australia right now with five points in the group stage and created history by qualifying for the Super 8s for the first time in T20 World Cup history.

Here are the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Predicted Playing XI for Match 38 of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026:

Predicted Sri Lanka Playing XI

Top Order: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara

Sri Lanka are expected to continue with Pathum Nissanka at the top of the order, while Kamil Mishara’s availability remains uncertain after he picked up an injury in the previous match. Nissanka comes into this contest in outstanding form, having struck a brilliant 100 off 52 deliveries against Australia in the last game. Mishara, who has struggled for rhythm so far in the tournament, may be assessed closer to the match, with Sri Lanka weighing continuity against fitness as they look to maintain a stable opening combination.

Middle Order: Kusal Mendis (WK), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis

Kusal Mendis has been a key pillar of Sri Lanka’s batting in this tournament, combining fluency with experience through the middle overs. He has scored 168 runs across three innings at a strike rate of 133.24, providing both stability and momentum. Pavan Rathnayake has had his moment in the World Cup as well, producing a standout knock of 60 off 28 deliveries against Oman earlier in the tournament, which showcased his ability to accelerate when required. Kamindu Mendis has added valuable versatility to the line-up, contributing with the bat at a strike rate of 242.31 in one of his appearances, while also chipping in with the ball as a rare ambidextrous option, picking up two wickets at an economy rate of 7.25.

All-Rounders: Dasun Shanaka (C), Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage

Captain Dasun Shanaka remains a key figure in Sri Lanka’s line-up, providing leadership and late-order power. He looks in good touch this tournament, having earlier registered the fastest T20I fifty by a Sri Lankan against Oman, an innings that underlined his ability to change games quickly. Dushan Hemantha and Dunith Wellalage continue to offer excellent balance with their all-round skills. Wellalage, in particular, has been impressive with the ball, picking up three wickets so far while maintaining tight control at an economy rate of just 6.5, making him an important option through the middle overs.

Bowlers: Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madhushanka

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack has stood out for its discipline and variety throughout the tournament. Dushmantha Chameera has led the pace unit effectively, picking up five wickets in three matches, even though he has gone at an economy of 8.89 while attacking in key phases. Maheesh Theekshana has been the standout performer with the ball, especially on surfaces that suit his style, claiming six wickets at an impressive economy rate of just 5.92. Dilshan Madhushanka has replaced Matheesha Pathirana after he suffered a calf injury in the match against Australia and left the field midway through the game. He is set to replace him in the XI.

Predicted Zimbabwe Playing XI

Top Order: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (WK)

Zimbabwe are likely to open with Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani, a combination that has worked well for them in this contest. Bennett played the anchor’s role with assurance, remaining unbeaten on 64 off 56 deliveries against Australia and guiding the innings through the middle overs. Marumani provided early momentum at the top, striking 35 off 21 balls in the same game and rotating the strike effectively before falling, allowing Zimbabwe to build a strong platform.

Middle Order: Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (C), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga

The middle order continues to be anchored by skipper Sikandar Raza, whose all-round influence has been central to Zimbabwe’s success in the tournament. Raza has shown his value across phases, scoring at a healthy rate when finishing innings, including an unbeaten 25 off 13 deliveries in the previous game, while also contributing economically with the ball when needed. Ryan Burl has provided stability in the middle overs, chipping in with important runs, allowing Zimbabwe to build without losing momentum. Dion Myers, however, is yet to make a significant impact with the bat in the tournament and will be keen to find form as Zimbabwe prepare for their next challenge with higher stakes on the line.

All-Rounders: Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza

Zimbabwe’s strength continues to lie in their all-round depth. Brad Evans made a strong impact with the ball, picking up three wickets in his 3.3 overs while conceding just 23 runs against Australia, providing control and timely breakthroughs. Wellington Masakadza, meanwhile, offers support through the middle overs. Their ability to contribute across phases gives Zimbabwe flexibility and helps keep the side balanced through the innings.

Bowlers: Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani

Blessing Muzarabani will spearhead Zimbabwe’s pace attack after a standout performance with the ball, where he picked up four wickets while conceding just 17 runs against Australia, using his bounce and accuracy to great effect. He was also Player of the Match in the first game of Zimbabwe against Ireland. Graeme Cremer, meanwhile, brings experience and control to the attack. His ability to bowl tight spells and apply pressure could still be important on a surface that tends to assist spinners as the match progresses.

FAQs

Q1: What is at stake in the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe clash in Match No. 38?
A1: With both teams already qualified, the match will determine who finishes on top of Group B heading into the Super 8 stage.

Q2: Why is this match significant for Zimbabwe in the T20 World Cup 2026?
A2: Zimbabwe have qualified for the Super 8 stage for the first time in T20 World Cup history, making this match a milestone moment regardless of the result.

Q3: Which player could be the X-factor in Match No. 38?
A3: Sikandar Raza remains Zimbabwe’s biggest X-factor due to his all-round impact, while Pathum Nissanka’s consistency at the top makes him a key figure for Sri Lanka.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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