Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Prediction & Match Preview – T20I Tri-Series, 5th Match

Sri Lanka go into this tri-series game with several batters who have recently contributed. Janith Liyanage played a composed 41 off 38 balls in the previous match, including three fours and a six, Kusal Perera added a brisk 25 off 19, and Kamil Mishara hit 22 off 12 with two fours and two sixes. Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, captain Dasun Shanaka and Kamindu Mendis complete a strong group of batters.

Dushmantha Chameera took 2 for 29 last time, and Wanindu Hasaranga, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Shanaka and Eshan Malinga make up the rest of an attack that mixes pace and spin.

Zimbabwe’s batting hinges on Brian Bennett, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza, Brendan Taylor and Tadiwanashe Marumani. Burl was exceptional in the previous match with an unbeaten 67 off 49 balls, and captain Raza supported him with 23 off 18 balls before also taking 2 for 38 with the ball. Brad Evans, Richard Ngarava, Graeme Cremer, Raza and Tinotenda Maposa will be asked to supply wickets in Zimbabwe’s attack.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

Rawalpindi is generally a good batting surface with true bounce and carry, and limited-overs games often produce high scores with chases common. The new ball can move early, particularly if there is cloud or moisture, before the pitch flattens. Spinners may get occasional help as it slows, but the track mostly favours batters.

Weather

A calm, pleasant evening is expected around 6:00 pm local time, with temperatures near 17°C, hazy but mostly clear skies and no rain. Haze may slightly reduce visibility.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 160–185
• 2nd innings: 150–170