On Wednesday, September 3, Kamindu Mendis played a powerful innings to help Sri Lanka take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series at Harare Sports Club.
Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka’s captain, won the toss and chose to bowl first. For Zimbabwe, Tadiwanashe Marumani and Sean Williams struggled to make an impact, but Brian Bennett shone, scoring 59 runs during the powerplay.
Bennett then built important partnerships with captain Sikandar Raza and experienced all-rounder Ryan Burl, giving Zimbabwe a strong foundation. Despite this, Zimbabwe lost two wickets in the final two overs and finished their innings at 175/7. Bennett was the top scorer, hitting 81 runs off 57 balls, including 12 boundaries.
For Sri Lanka, Dushmantha Chameera was the standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for 30 runs in four overs. Dushan Hemantha also bowled economically, conceding just 28 runs and picking up one wicket.
Sri Lanka started their chase strongly, with openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis putting together 96 runs in the first 11 overs. But Zimbabwe fought back in the middle overs, taking several key wickets. From a strong 96/0 after 10 overs, Sri Lanka fell to 142/6 by the 17th over.
Needing 34 runs from the last three overs, Kamindu Mendis played a brilliant cameo, scoring 41 not out off just 16 balls, including four sixes and a four. Hemantha supported him with 14 not out off nine balls. Together, they took Sri Lanka to victory in 19.1 overs, winning by four wickets.
Richard Ngarava bowled really well, taking two wickets for just 19 runs in four overs. Raza also performed strongly, finishing with one wicket for 26 runs in his four overs. Despite their efforts, Zimbabwe couldn’t win the match.
The two teams will play the second T20I at the same venue on Saturday, September 6. Sri Lanka will aim to seal the series, while Zimbabwe must push hard to get a win.
FAQ
What was the result of the 1st T20I between Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka in 2025?
Sri Lanka won the match in a thrilling last-over finish, thanks to an exciting cameo by Kamindu Mendis.
How did Kamindu Mendis contribute to the win?
Mendis played a match-winning cameo, scoring crucial runs in the final overs to secure victory for Sri Lanka.
How did Zimbabwe’s bowlers perform?
Richard Ngarava bowled 4 overs for 19 runs, taking 2 wickets, while Raza took 1 wicket for 26 runs in 4 overs.
When and where will the second T20I take place?
The second T20I will be played at the same venue on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
What are the stakes for the second match?
Sri Lanka will aim to wrap up the series with another win, while Zimbabwe will be looking for a victory to stay competitive.
