Sri Lanka registered a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second ODI of the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025held at the Harare Sports Club on Sunday. With the win, the visitors also took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

Chasing a target of 278, Sri Lanka rode on a magnificent century from Pathum Nissanka, who was deservedly named Player of the Match.

Zimbabwe’s fighting total built on Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza

Put in to bat first, Zimbabwe posted a competitive 277/7 in 50 overs. Opener Ben Curran anchored the innings with a well-crafted 79 off 95 balls, while Sikandar Raza continued his fine form with a brisk 59 off 55 deliveries, including five fours and a six.

Veteran Brendan Taylor (20) and skipper Sean Williams (20) chipped in with useful contributions, while Clive Madande (36 off 36) provided late fireworks.

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Dushmantha Chameera, who picked up 3/52 in his 10 overs. Asitha Fernando (2/67) and Dilshan Madushanka (1/57) also struck at key moments to keep Zimbabwe in check.

Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka Guide The Char

In reply, Sri Lanka began cautiously after losing Nuwanidu Fernando (14) and skipper Kusal Mendis (5) early. However, Pathum nissanka anchored the innings with a sublime 122 off 136 balls, laced with 16 boundaries.

He received strong support from Charith Asalanka, whose fluent 71 off 61 balls shifted the momentum firmly in Sri Lanka’s favour. A late cameo from Janith Liyanage (19 off 16) ensured the visitors crossed the line with three balls to spare, finishing at 278/5 in 49.3 overs.

For Zimbabwe, Richard Ngarava (2/53) and Brad Evans (2/54) were the standout bowlers, while Ernest Masuku (1/32) provided a key breakthrough.

Player of the Match

Pathum Nissanka’s masterclass at the top of the order was the decisive factor in the chase. His ability to absorb pressure, rotate strike, and punish loose deliveries ensured Sri Lanka never lost control of the game.

Having already won the first ODI by 7 runs, Sri Lanka sealed the two-match series 2-0 with comprehensive win in the second game.

The tour now shifts to the shortest format, with the first T20I scheduled for Wednesday, September 3, at the Harare Sports Club.