Rajapaksa Returns to T20I as Sri Lanka Bowls Against Zimbabwe
In an exciting match, Sri Lanka decided to bowl first against Zimbabwe. This decision was influenced by the expectation of dew forming later in the evening, as explained by Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka. Shanaka filled in for Charith Asalanka, who withdrew due to illness.
Match Preview
Zimbabwe’s captain, Sikandar Raza, expressed the team’s intent to maximize their scoring potential. He noted that the pitch at Rawalpindi was considerably more conducive to batting compared to previous matches. Players can expect the ball to come off the bat nicely throughout the game.
Team Updates
- Sri Lanka: Bhanuka Rajapaksa makes his T20I return, replacing the ill Asalanka.
- Eshan Malinga: Set to make his debut as a seamer for Sri Lanka.
- Wanindu Hasaranga: Cleared to play, confirming his place in the squad.
As a result, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, initially brought in as a potential substitute, remains on the bench.
Zimbabwe’s Unchanged XI
Zimbabwe maintains their original lineup for this clash, featuring:
- Brian Bennett
- Tadiwanashe Marumani
- Brendan Taylor (wk)
- Ryan Burl
- Sikandar Raza (capt)
- Tony Munyonga
- Tashinga Musekiwa
- Brad Evans
- Tinotenda Maposa
- Richard Ngarava
- Graeme Cremer
Sri Lanka’s Lineup
Sri Lanka’s team for this match is as follows:
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Kusal Perera
- Bhanuka Rajapaksa
- Dasun Shanaka (capt)
- Kamindu Mendis
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Dushmantha Chameera
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Nuwan Thushara
- Eshan Malinga
This T20I match promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams look to establish their dominance in the format while featuring key players like Rajapaksa.
