Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Highlights, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 38 | Feb 19: Brian Bennett and Sikandar Raza Shine as Zimbabwe Overpower Sri Lanka by 6 Wickets

SL vs ZIM 38th T20 World Cup Match Highlights saw Zimbabwe chase down a target of 179 at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 19, 2026, defeating Sri Lanka by 6 wickets with 3 balls remaining. The win propelled Zimbabwe to the top of Group B, while Sri Lanka remained in second place, leaving both sides with critical points in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2025/26 campaign.

Sri Lanka elected to bat first after winning the toss, posting a total of 178/7 in their 20 overs. Pathum Nissanka anchored the innings with a well-paced 62 off 41 balls, while Pavan Rathnayake contributed a brisk 44 from 25 deliveries. However, the innings lacked substantial partnerships after Nissanka’s dismissal, as wickets fell at regular intervals in the middle and late overs. Kusal Perera provided a quick start but fell early, and contributions from the lower middle order were limited. Dunith Wellalage remained not out on 15, adding some late impetus.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers managed to maintain pressure in crucial phases despite a steady start for Sri Lanka. Graeme Cremer claimed three wickets, including two key top-order dismissals, while Blessing Muzarabani and Brad Evans chipped in with two wickets each. The Sri Lankan powerplay provided 50 runs in 4.1 overs, but the middle overs saw controlled bowling that slowed the scoring rate and triggered regular dismissals, restricting the innings to sub-180.

Chasing 179, Zimbabwe got off to a confident start, reaching 50 runs in just under six overs without losing a wicket. Brian Bennett held the innings together with 63 not out, while Sikandar Raza played a decisive 45 from 26 balls. Despite losing three quick wickets in the final overs, Zimbabwe managed to cross the target with three balls to spare. Tactical bowling changes by Sri Lanka in the death overs briefly stalled the chase, but Zimbabwe’s adaptability and timely partnerships ensured the momentum remained in their favor.

Sri Lanka’s decision to bat first at R Premadasa Stadium set up a competitive total, but Zimbabwe’s measured chase demonstrated resilience and smart utilization of partnerships under pressure.

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Toss Winner:

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka chose to take first strike with the bat.

Key Moment:

The pivotal moment came when Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza and Brian Bennett steadied the innings after the third wicket fell at 167, ensuring the chase remained on track and shifting momentum back to Zimbabwe in the final overs.

Star Performer / MVP:

Sikandar Raza was named Player of the Match for his impactful 45 off 26 balls, anchoring the chase and turning the game in Zimbabwe’s favor.

SL vs ZIM Match Summary

SL vs ZIM Playing XI

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan

Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza, Tashinga Musekiwa, Tony Munyonga, Dion Myers, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani

FAQs – Yesterday’s SL vs ZIM 38th ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Match (Feb 19, 2026)

Q1: What was the final score of yesterday’s SL vs ZIM match?
A1: Yesterday (Feb 19, 2026): 38th Match, Group B
Sri Lanka (178/7 in 20 overs) was defeated by Zimbabwe (182/4 in 19.3 overs) by 6 wickets with 3 balls remaining. Pathum Nissanka top-scored for Sri Lanka with 62, while Brian Bennett led Zimbabwe’s innings with 63*.
Result: Zimbabwe moved to the top of Group B, Sri Lanka remained second.

Q2: Who was named the Player of the Match?
A2: Sikandar Raza was named the Player of the Match for his unbeaten 45 off 26 balls, anchoring the chase and ensuring Zimbabwe completed the target successfully.

Q3: Where was the match played, and who won the toss?
A3: The match was played at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first.

Q4: Who were the top performers with the bat for both sides?
A4: For Sri Lanka, Pathum Nissanka top-scored with 62 runs. For Zimbabwe, Brian Bennett was the leading run-scorer with 63 not out. Sikandar Raza also played a decisive supporting role with 45 off 26 balls.

Disclaimer: This match highlight 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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