Sri Lanka secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the fifth match of the Pakistan T20I Tri-Series on Tuesday, reigniting their campaign in the tournament.
Pathum Nissanka starred with an unbeaten 98 off 58 balls, including nine fours and four sixes, as Sri Lanka chased down Zimbabwe's total of 146 for five with 22 balls to spare. Kusal Mendis contributed an unbeaten 25, ensuring a smooth chase after the openers set a solid foundation.
Zimbabwe's innings struggled for momentum despite Ryan Burl's unbeaten 37. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana claimed two wickets each for 23 runs apiece, restricting the opposition on a pitch that offered variable bounce.
The win marks Sri Lanka's first points in the series, following a 67-run defeat to Zimbabwe earlier. Captain Dasun Shanaka praised Nissanka's innings, noting it turned a modest target into a comfortable pursuit.
This result positions Sri Lanka ahead of their crucial clash with Pakistan, where a victory could secure their spot in the final based on net run rate. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, remains atop the table but faces pressure to maintain form.
Fans packed Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, where Nissanka's boundary-laden knock drew loud cheers. The match highlighted the tri-series' competitive edge, with all three teams vying for supremacy.
Earlier, Brian Bennett and Sikandar Raza provided starts for Zimbabwe, but timely strikes from Hasaranga and Theekshana halted progress. Burl's late flourish pushed the score past 140, but it proved insufficient.
Sri Lanka's openers raced to 50 without loss in the powerplay, setting the tone. Nissanka reached his half-century off 32 balls, blending elegant drives with powerful pulls.
The chase faced a minor hiccup at 148 for one, but Mendis and Nissanka steered home without further alarm. Evans claimed the lone wicket for 36 runs.
Post-match, Nissanka credited team preparation, saying disciplined bowling created opportunities. Shanaka emphasized adapting to conditions, a key factor in their turnaround.
The tri-series, hosted in Rawalpindi, features Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. It serves as vital preparation for upcoming internationals, with playoff implications intensifying.
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza admitted his side fell short on a tricky surface. He lauded Sri Lanka's chase but stressed improving batting depth.
