Sri Lanka defeated Zimbabwe in final 3rd T20I by eight wickets to win the series 2-1. The match itself unfolded as a rollercoaster, filled with explosive batting, clever bowling spells, and a partnership that shifted the balance irreversibly. For Sri Lanka, it wasn’t just a chase, but a statement of intent, powered by the new generation stepping up on the international stage. For Zimbabwe, flashes of brilliance weren’t enough to counter a side that timed their pursuit to perfection. By the time the final runs were struck, it became clear that this wasn’t just another bilateral win for Sri Lanka, but a reminder of their depth and batting firepower.

Zimbabwe’s brave total in the 3rd T20I on back of Tadiwanashe Marumani

Asked to bat first after Sri Lanka won the toss, Zimbabwe’s innings was full of fireworks but lacked the finishing touch that could have made the target far more intimidating. The hosts posted 191/8 in their 20 overs, a total that seemed competitive on the surface but was perhaps 10–15 runs short given the true Harare pitch and lightning-fast outfield. Their innings revolved around the measured aggression of Tadiwanashe Marumani, who anchored the effort with a well-compiled 51 off 44 balls. His knock may not have been the most flamboyant, but it offered stability at the top and allowed the likes of Sean Williams (23 off 11) and Sikandar Raza (28 off 18) to unleash their attacking instincts in the middle overs. The cameos that followed, from Ryan Burl’s quickfire 26 and Tashinga Musekiwa’s enterprising 18, ensured Zimbabwe never lost momentum completely, but they also never truly broke free. Each time they looked set for a surge, Sri Lanka’s bowlers clawed their way back. Dushan Hemantha emerged as the standout, picking up three crucial wickets and stalling Zimbabwe’s charge.

Sri Lanka’s dominant chase led by Kamil Mishara to seal the series

However, Sri Lanka’s response was nothing short of a batting masterclass. The chase was built on a blistering 58-run opening stand between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, who set the tone by scoring at a run rate of over 10. Although both openers fell in quick succession, the momentum was not lost. The pair of Kamil Mishara and Kusal Perera then took control of the innings with a brilliant partnership that expertly neutralized any threat from the Zimbabwean bowlers. Mishara’s aggressive play saw him score an unbeaten 73 off just 43 deliveries, while Perera played a strong supporting role with a 26-ball 46. Their collective effort ensured that Sri Lanka cruised to the target with eight wickets in hand and more than two overs to spare, securing a comfortable victory and the series win.