ZIM vs SL Today Match Prediction: Who Will Win 1st T20I 2025?
ZIM vs SL Match Preview
Zimbabwe struggled in their most recent T20I outings, especially during July’s Tri-Series against New Zealand and South Africa, failing to win a game[^2]. The hosts will look to redeem themselves in front of their supporters, banking on familiar conditions and fresh motivation. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka arrive buoyed by a 2-0 ODI series win over Zimbabwe and have a well-balanced T20 squad loaded with in-form talent. They enter as confident favorites and will look to carry over their winning momentum into the shortest format. So let’s have a look at Who will win ZIM vs SL 1st T20I.
ZIM vs SL 1st T20I 2025
Sri Lanka’s lineup, bolstered by standout performances from Pathum Nissanka and experienced campaigners like Kusal Perera, looks a class above at present. Sri Lanka’s bowlers have also shown greater consistency, while Zimbabwe’s reliance on all-rounder Sikandar Raza and pacers Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava puts them at a disadvantage in depth and recent form. The first innings score is expected to land in the 140-160 range, with the second innings marginally lower, given Harare’s conditions.
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Playing XI
Probable Zimbabwe XI: Craig Ervine, Innocent Kaia, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams, Wesley Madhevere, Milton Shumba, Ryan Burl, Clive Madande, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Tendai Chatara
Probable Sri Lanka XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Dhananjaya de Silva, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Binura Fernando
Match prediction
Sri Lanka are clear favorites, given their deeper batting and bowling resources, recent ODI supremacy, and superior T20 form. Zimbabwe’s home advantage may keep them competitive, but Sri Lanka’s quality should prevail—Sri Lanka win probability: 71%.
FAQs
– When is the match? September 3, 2025, at Harare Sports Club.
– Who are the key players? Sikandar Raza (ZIM), Pathum Nissanka (SL).
– Where to watch? Available on select cricket broadcasters; check local listings.
Captain/VC
Top Captaincy Picks: Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe), Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka)
Vice-Captain Options: Wanindu Hasaranga (SL), Sean Williams (ZIM)
Fantasy Team
– Pathum Nissanka (C)
– Sikandar Raza (VC)
– Kusal Perera
– Kusal Mendis
– Charith Asalanka
– Sean Williams
– Wanindu Hasaranga
– Richard Ngarava
– Blessing Muzarabani
– Maheesh Theekshana
– Matheesha Pathirana
Pitch Report
The Harare Sports Club pitch generally offers good bounce but rewards disciplined bowling. Scores of 140-160 are par, and chasing can be tricky under lights.
Weather and Venue
Conditions are expected to be dry and sunny, with moderate temperatures—ideal for a full 20-over contest.
Recent Head-to-Head
Sri Lanka won the previous T20I series 2-1 and hold a psychological edge over Zimbabwe.
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