Overview:
Sri Lanka enter this contest with momentum and a balanced unit that has delivered consistently across departments.
The 38th match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 will feature Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, with the match starting at 3:00 PM IST.
Sri Lanka opened their tournament with a controlled 20-run success over Ireland. They then dismantled Oman by 105 runs in a one-sided display. A polished eight-wicket triumph against Australia capped a near-flawless group phase.
Zimbabwe have scripted a memorable campaign, securing a Super 8 berth. Their run included a headline-grabbing win over Australia. With the competition entering its second phase, they now face a stern examination against in-form Sri Lankan unit.
SL vs ZIM Match Details
| Fixture | SL vs ZIM: 38th Match, T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Date | February 19th, 2026 (Thursday) |
| Time | 3:00 PM IST |
| Toss time | 2:30 PM IST |
| Ground | R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
SL vs ZIM head-to-head records in T20I
| Matches Played | SL | ZIM |
| 11 | 8 | 3 |
Pitch Report
Spin has traditionally been a key factor at the R Premadasa, and this World Cup has been no exception. Several matches here have seen slow bowlers dictate terms. With damp conditions, the pitch could also grip and hold, prompting captains to consider bowling first after the toss.
SL vs ZIM Probable Best Performers
Key batter to watch out for: Pathum Nissanka
Pathum Nissanka is the key batter for Sri Lanka. Fresh from a commanding 113 against Australia, he will look to perform against Zimbabwe.
Key bowler to watch out for: Blessing Muzarabani
Zimbabwe will once again rely on Blessing Muzarabani, who has led their attack with consistency. With nine scalps in three matches, including a match-defining four-wicket burst versus Australia, he remains a major threat.
SL vs ZIM Match Prediction ICC T20 World Cup 2026
Sri Lanka enter this contest with momentum and a balanced unit that has delivered consistently across departments. Zimbabwe, however, have shown resilience in this tournament and will look to challenge with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. On current form and conditions in Colombo, Sri Lanka appear slight favourites, but Zimbabwe have the resources to push them all the way.
SL vs ZIM Probable XIs
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Mendis (w), Dushmantha Chameera, Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana.
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (w), Ryan Burl, Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Brad Evans, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani.