Sri Lanka pulled off a thrilling 4-wicket win against Zimbabwe in the 1st T20I of the three-match series, held on September 3, 2025. Chasing 176 runs, Sri Lanka overcame a mid-innings collapse before Kamindu Mendis’ blistering 41 off just 16 balls* sealed the win with 5 balls to spare.


Kamindu Mendis - 41 off 16* sealed the win
Kamindu Mendis - 41 off 16* sealed the win


Zimbabwe Innings: Bennett Anchors with 81

After being put in to bat, Zimbabwe posted a competitive 175/7 in their 20 overs.


Brian Bennett was the star of the innings, smashing 81 off 57 balls with power and precision.

Sikandar Raza chipped in with a valuable 28 runs, ensuring Zimbabwe maintained momentum.

Despite some late strikes from Sri Lanka’s bowlers, Zimbabwe set a strong total on the board.


Sri Lanka Innings: Nissanka & Kamindu Shine

Sri Lanka began their chase in style, with Pathum Nissanka (55 off 32 balls) leading the charge.


Opening stand: Nissanka and Kusal Mendis put on 96 runs in 10 overs, dominating the powerplay.

Collapse: Zimbabwe hit back with 4 wickets for 10 runs, reducing Sri Lanka from 96/0 to 125/5.

Turning point: Just when the game tilted Zimbabwe’s way, Kamindu Mendis unleashed a late assault. His 41 off 16 balls*, including a stunning 26 runs in the 18th over, turned the match in Sri Lanka’s favor.

Sri Lanka finished at 177/6 in 19.1 overs, clinching victory with 4 wickets in hand.


Key Moments


Brian Bennett’s 81 anchored Zimbabwe’s innings.

Pathum Nissanka’s powerplay blitz (55 off 32) gave Sri Lanka a flying start.

Zimbabwe’s fightback created tension with a middle-order collapse.

Kamindu Mendis’ heroic late cameo (41 off 16)* sealed the win in dramatic fashion.


Player of the Match

Kamindu Mendis – for his explosive, match-winning knock that turned the contest on its head.


Series Impact

Sri Lanka’s thrilling win gives them a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series. Zimbabwe, despite a spirited performance, will need to regroup quickly for the second game.


FAQs

1. Who won the 1st T20I between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in 2025?
Sri Lanka won by 4 wickets with 5 balls remaining.

2. Who was the standout performer for Sri Lanka?
Kamindu Mendis, with his explosive 41 off 16 balls*, was the game-changer.

3. Who top-scored for Zimbabwe?
Brian Bennett, with a brilliant 81 off 57 balls.

4. What is the series score after this match?
Sri Lanka lead the three-match T20I series 1-0.


Summary 

In a dramatic finish, Kamindu Mendis’ late fireworks powered Sri Lanka to a thrilling 4-wicket win over Zimbabwe in the 1st T20I at Sharjah. With this victory, Sri Lanka take an early lead in the series, leaving Zimbabwe needing to bounce back in the next match.