Following a thrilling ODI series, Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka will now change gears to the T20 mode as the two teams face each other in the 1st T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday. While Sri Lanka come into the match full of confidence following their ODI victory, Zimbabwe will be eager to stage a comeback before home supporters.
Zimbabwe Vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I: Match Preview
The hosts struggled in the ODI series, with errant batting and erratic bowling revealing their frailties. Captain Sikandar Raza will be hoping for a better performance in the shortest form of the game, where Zimbabwe have always been more competitive.
Sri Lanka, with Charith Asalanka at the helm, would consider this series the perfect chance to test and trim their team for the 2025 Asia Cup, set to start later this month. With a combination of old warhorses such as Kusal Mendis and dynamic prospects like Matheesha Pathirana, Sri Lanka would be favourites on paper.
ZIM Vs SL 1st T20I: When and Where To Watch?
- Match Date: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
- Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
- Match Time: 5:00 pm (IST) | 1:30 pm (local time)
Cricket enthusiasts interested in tracking Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I action should be aware that the match won’t be broadcast live on Indian television. Nevertheless, the match will be streamed live.
- TV Broadcast: Not available in India
- OTT Streaming: FanCode app and website
This makes FanCode the choice destination for fans looking to catch every ball-by-ball update and live action from Harare.
Zimbabwe Vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I – Squads
Sri Lanka Squad:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamil Mishara, Dushan Hemantha, Vishen Halambage, Kamindu Mendis
Zimbabwe Squad (Expected):
Sikandar Raza (c), Sean Williams, Craig Ervine, Innocent Kaia, Wesley Madhevere, Ryan Burl, Luke Jongwe, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Clive Madande (wk), Milton Shumba, Wellington Masakadza, Tony Munyonga, Brandon Mavuta
ZIM VS SL 1st T20I – Key Battles To Watch
The clash between Zimbabwe’s experienced all-rounder Sikandar Raza and Sri Lanka’s mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana could be pivotal in shaping the game. For Sri Lanka, opener Pathum Nissanka’s form will be closely watched, while Zimbabwe will hope for runs from seasoned campaigner Craig Ervine.
Zimbabwe Vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I – What’s At Stake
Though the T20I series is not included in the cycle of ICC rankings, it is of great significance to both teams. For Zimbabwe, it’s salvage pride and momentum boost following the ODI defeat. For Sri Lanka, it’s a matter of gauging bench strength and preparation for the impending Asia Cup 2025.
With so many youngsters and experienced stars playing, supporters can look forward to the Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I to provide a good competitive beginning to the series.
