Srilanka Vs Zimbabwe 2nd Odi : Match Preview
The two match odi series between srilanka and zimbabwe has already produced high drama. The second clash at the Harare Sports Club on 31 August 2025. The host came agonisingly clost to victory but were undone by a sensational last over hat trick by Dilshan Madhushankha ,where srilanka clinched a thrilling 7-run victory, both sides will be determined to make a strong statement. Srilanka will look to wrap the series, while zimbabwe will fight hard and level the series.
Zimbabwe, showed tremendous fight despite the setback, with regular captain Craig Ervine unavailable . Sean williams has stepped up to lead, supported by experienced Sikandar Raza and Brendon taylor . Their bowler including Richard Nagarva and Blessings Muzarabani , impressed early but will look to tighten their death over execution.
Under Charith Asalanka captaincy, boasts a well rounded squad featuring in form batter Pathum Nishanka and Kamindu Mendis , along with a strong bowilng unit spreadhead by Dilshan Madhushankha and Mahesh Theekshana. Despite missing star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga .
Venue and Conditions
The Harare Sports Club is a known for balanced pitches. Early movement of the new ball will test the batters, but once set,they can play their shorts freely. Spinners are expected to come in to play as the game progresses. Making it a surface.
Batting first has traditionally been an advantage here, especially in day games where chasing totals can become tricky under fading lights and slightly slower conditions. A average score in this pitch is 260-290 runs could be competitive and team winning the toss is likely to bat first.
Head to Head record in ODIS
Matches Played : 65
SL won : 50
Zim won : 12
Tied/ No Results : 3
SL vs Zim Probable Playing 11S
Srilanka
Pathum Nishanka, Nishan Madhshka, Kusal Mendis (wicketkeeper), Sadeera Samarwikrama , Charith Asalanka (captain), Janith Liyange, Kamindu Mendis, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Ashitha Fernando, Dilshan Madhushankha
Zimbabwe
Brian Baneet, Ben Curran, Brendon Taylor (wicketkeeper), Sean williams (captain), Sikandar Raza, Tony Munyonga, Bard Evans, Richard Nagarva, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu.
Players to watch
Pathum Nishanka: srilanka most reliable batter in ODIS, known for his ability to build long innings and anchor the chase.
Dilshan Madhushankha: Fresh off his stunning hatrick in the first odi , madhushankha will look to trouble zimbabwe batting lineup again with pace and swing.
Sikandar Raza : zimbabwe talisman and biggest match winner. How ability to score quick runs and take crucial wickets makes him the backbone of this zimbabwe side.
Brendon Taylor: A senior and experience batter who brings composer and finishing ability to zimbabwe middle order.
Prediction: Srilanka Slightly Favourites
While zimbabwe came to close in the first match, srilanka squad depth bowling, versatility and ability to thrive under pressure make them favourites to win the second odis, expect zimbabwe to put up a fight, but srilanka are well placed to seal the series.