After that gut‑punch loss to Bangladesh, the boys in green found a spark that lit up Rawalpindi. Zimbabwe posted a modest 162‑8 – thanks to Brian Bennett’s 49 and Sikandar Raza’s quick‑fire 47 – and then turned the screws, bowling Sri Lanka out for just 95. The 67‑run win not only gave us a much‑needed confidence boost, it reminded everyone that we’re still a competitive force in this tri‑series.
The chase was a masterclass in discipline. Brad Evans stole the show with a ridiculous 3 wickets for 9 runs spell, the best figures in the match and a reminder that defending a low total in men’s T20I isn’t a lost cause for us. Richard Ngarava (2 wickets for 15 runs) also added crucial wickets. All six Zimbabwe bowlers picked up wickets, spreading the pressure and keeping Sri Lanka’s run‑rate in check.
For Sri Lanka, only stand‑in captain Dasun Shanaka (34) and Bhanuka Rajapaksa (11) reached double figures, a stark contrast to the fireworks we saw from Bennett and Raza at the top. The opening partnership of 26 runs in the first three overs set the tone, and the 61‑run stand between Bennett and Raza – built in just 44 balls – gave us the platform we needed. Even when Raza fell for 47, the damage was already done, and the tail managed to push the total past 160.
This win is more than just a result; it’s a statement. After a shaky start, Zimbabwe has shown it can fight back, adapt, and out‑play a higher‑ranked side. The depth in our bowling attack, highlighted by Evans’ brilliance, gives us hope for the rest of the series. We may have stumbled, but we’re far from out – and that’s exactly the energy we need heading forward.
