Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Prediction: Who Will Win 1st T20 Match on 3rd September 2025?
The much-awaited Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe prediction for the 1st T20 2025 promises to be a thrilling battle between two sides aiming to improve their recent T20 form. The opening match of the three-match series will be played on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025, at Harare Sports Club, Harare. Both teams come into this game with recent struggles in the shortest format, but the stage is set for an exciting contest. Cricketwebs provides 100% match prediction tips for every cricket match, and here is the complete preview of this clash.
Match Details
| Match | Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, 1st T20 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, 3rd September 2025 |
| Time | 5:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Harare Sports Club, Harare |
Team Previews
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe enters this T20 series on the back of four consecutive losses in the format. Their batting has been the major area of concern, as runs have dried up across the order. In their last few outings, even boundaries and sixes have been scarce, pointing to a lack of aggressive intent. To counter this, Zimbabwe will need their top order to fire with a fearless approach.
Sikandar Raza, their captain and most reliable performer, will play a crucial role with both bat and ball. Alongside him, Ben Curran and Brian Bennett could provide the necessary aggression at the top. Ryan Burl and Tony Munyonga bring depth to the middle order, but consistency remains key.
On the bowling side, Richard Ngarava and Wellington Masakadza will shoulder the burden of restricting a strong Sri Lankan batting unit. The spin department, with Raza himself and Burl’s part-time options, could also be crucial on the Harare pitch. Zimbabwe’s focus will be on executing plans better, especially in the powerplay overs, to stand a chance against the visitors.
Zimbabwe Probable Playing XI:
Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Clive Madande (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Tinotenda Maposa, Richard Ngarava, Trevor Gwandu.
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka has not had the best of runs in T20Is either, losing their last two matches, but they will take confidence from their ODI series sweep over Zimbabwe. Pathum Nissanka is in sensational form after scores of 76 and 122 in the ODIs and will once again be the key batter. Partnering him at the top will be Kusal Mendis, who adds stability and wicketkeeping duties.
The middle order features Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka, all of whom can play the role of aggressor if needed. With their blend of experience and youngsters, Sri Lanka’s batting looks stronger compared to Zimbabwe.
Bowling is likely to be their trump card. With the likes of Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage providing quality spin, backed by the raw pace of Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara, Sri Lanka has the balance to dominate in all phases. Expect them to be aggressive with the ball early to push Zimbabwe on the back foot.
Sri Lanka Probable Playing XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara.
Fantasy Team XI
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Pathum Nissanka, Ben Curran, Ryan Burl |
| Wicket-Keeper | Kusal Mendis, Clive Madande |
| All-Rounders | Sikandar Raza (C), Dasun Shanaka (VC), Chamika Karunaratne |
| Bowlers | Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Richard Ngarava |
Fantasy Tips:
Pathum Nissanka is a must-pick given his red-hot form, while Sikandar Raza is the safest captain choice with his all-round impact. Dasun Shanaka, who contributes in both departments, makes a solid vice-captaincy pick. Kusal Mendis is another consistent option behind the stumps. Richard Ngarava could fetch fantasy points with early breakthroughs.
Captain Picks: Sikandar Raza, Pathum Nissanka
Vice-Captain Picks: Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana
Players to Avoid: Tinotenda Maposa (inexperienced), Kamindu Mendis (inconsistent in T20Is).
Favorite Team in Today’s Match
Sri Lanka starts this game as clear favorites. Their batting order is in better touch, with Nissanka, Mendis, and Asalanka capable of scoring heavily. The all-round options of Shanaka and Karunaratne give them flexibility, while Theekshana’s spin and Chameera’s pace add teeth to their bowling. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, is struggling with confidence and consistency, especially in their batting. If Sri Lanka gets early breakthroughs, Zimbabwe could be under pressure once again. Overall, Sri Lanka has the balance, form, and recent record to dominate this fixture.
Sri Lanka T20 History
Sri Lanka has played 206 T20 internationals, winning 93 and losing 111, with 2 no results. They were the 2014 ICC T20 World Cup champions and have a history of producing world-class spinners and impactful batters. Although they have been inconsistent in recent years, Sri Lanka remains a dangerous T20 side capable of beating any opposition on their day.
Zimbabwe T20 History
Zimbabwe has featured in 168 T20 internationals, winning 58 and losing 107, with 3 matches ending without a result. While they have not had significant success in ICC tournaments, Zimbabwe has often punched above their weight in bilateral series. Their lack of consistency has hurt them, but players like Sikandar Raza have kept them competitive in patches.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | Sri Lanka Won | Zimbabwe Won | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 1 | 0 |
Sri Lanka has dominated Zimbabwe in T20Is, winning 5 out of 6 encounters. Zimbabwe’s only win came in Harare, but overall, the visitors hold a significant upper hand.
Pitch Report
The Harare Sports Club pitch generally favors batters early on, but spinners can come into play as the game progresses. A score around 160 is competitive here, with chasing often preferred.
Weather Report
The weather forecast for Harare is clear with minimal rain chances. Conditions will be dry, and temperatures will hover around 24°C – ideal for cricket.
Broadcast Details
The Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 1st T20 will be live-streamed on FanCode in India.
Toss Prediction
The toss will be crucial. Expect the winner to bat second, considering chasing has been more successful at Harare Sports Club. Our prediction: Sri Lanka to win the toss.
Match Prediction
Sri Lanka hold the upper hand with their stronger squad and better recent performances. Zimbabwe’s batting struggles are likely to continue against Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling attack.
Winner Prediction: Sri Lanka to win the 1st T20.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – SL vs ZIM 1st T20
Q1: When is the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 1st T20 2025?
On Wednesday, 3rd September 2025, at Harare Sports Club.
Q2: Who is favorite to win the SL vs ZIM 1st T20?
Sri Lanka are favorites due to better form and stronger squad.
Q3: What time does the match start?
The match begins at 5:30 PM IST.
Q4: Where to watch Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 1st T20 in India?
It will be live-streamed on FanCode.
Q5: Who are the key players in this match?
Pathum Nissanka, Sikandar Raza, and Maheesh Theekshana.
Q6: What is the pitch report for Harare Sports Club?
Batting friendly, with spinners effective in the middle overs.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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