Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Prediction: Who Will Win 2nd ODI Match on 31st August 2025?
The Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe prediction for the 2nd ODI 2025 promises another thrilling contest as both teams gear up for a high-voltage clash at Harare Sports Club on Sunday, 31st August 2025. After a nail-biting seven-run win in the series opener, Sri Lanka will be keen to seal the series, while Zimbabwe will fight to level the scoreline. Fans can expect another close battle as the Chevrons look to bounce back and deny the visitors a whitewash. Cricketwebs provides 100% accurate match prediction tips for this clash.
Today’s Match Details
| Match | SL vs ZIM, 2nd ODI 2025 |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, August 31, 2025 |
| Time | 2:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Harare Cricket Ground, Harare |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
Team Previews
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka displayed grit in the opening ODI, posting a solid 299-run target thanks to a fluent 76 by Pathum Nissanka and steady contributions from the middle order. The highlight, however, was Dilshan Madushanka’s heroics in the final over where he claimed a hat-trick under pressure. Charith Asalanka’s leadership has brought stability, while the bowling unit of Theekshana, Chameera, and Madushanka looks sharp. Going into the second game, the Lankans will aim for a commanding win to take an unassailable lead and head into the T20I series with momentum. Nissanka’s regained form and the lower-order depth remain Sri Lanka’s major strengths.
Zimbabwe Preview
Zimbabwe came agonizingly close in the first ODI but faltered at the very end. Despite Sean Williams leading from the front and Sikandar Raza showing fight, the absence of Craig Ervine was felt in the middle order. Richard Ngarava impressed with the ball, claiming crucial wickets while keeping the run rate in check. The Chevrons will need more consistency from batters like Madhevere and Tony Munyonga to chase or set a competitive score. With home advantage and passionate support, Zimbabwe will aim to pull off a win and keep the series alive.
Squads
Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sean Williams (c), Sikandar Raza, Wessly Madhevere, Tony Munyonga, Brad Evans, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka
Probable Playing XI
Zimbabwe: Sean Williams (c), Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza, Richard Ngarava, Wessly Madhevere, Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Tony Munyonga, Brad Evans, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Charith Asalanka (c), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Pathum Nissanka | Batter |
| Kusal Mendis (C) | WK-Batter |
| Charith Asalanka | Batter |
| Sadeera Samarawickrama | Batter |
| Sean Williams | All-rounder |
| Sikandar Raza (VC) | All-rounder |
| Kamindu Mendis | All-rounder |
| Richard Ngarava | Bowler |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Bowler |
| Dilshan Madushanka | Bowler |
| Maheesh Theekshana | Bowler |
Fantasy Analysis
- Captain choices: Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka
- Vice-captain choices: Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams
- Players to avoid: Ben Curran (inconsistent), Tony Munyonga (low returns)
Head-to-Head in ODIs
| Matches | ZIM Won | SL Won | Tied/NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 65 | 12 | 50 | 3 |
Sri Lanka has dominated Zimbabwe historically, winning 50 of the 65 ODIs, while Zimbabwe managed 12 victories.
Favorite Team Today – Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka holds the upper hand in this clash with better squad depth, form, and momentum. Their batting lineup looks more settled, while their bowling attack has the firepower to defend totals or restrict Zimbabwe. Pathum Nissanka’s regained touch and Madushanka’s lethal form make them a tough side to beat. Zimbabwe will need extraordinary performances from Raza and Williams to challenge them. Given their recent form and overall record, Sri Lanka are the favorites to win this match.
Pitch & Weather Report
- Pitch: Balanced surface at Harare; average 1st innings score: 237. Offers help to pacers early on, spinners later.
- Weather: Clear skies, 24°C, no rain expected. Perfect conditions for cricket.
Toss Prediction
Team winning the toss may choose to bowl first, as chasing historically provides an edge at Harare.
Score Prediction
- If Sri Lanka bat first: 291+
- If Zimbabwe bat first: 245+
Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?
Sri Lanka look far stronger on paper and in form. With a better batting unit and in-form pacers, they are likely to seal the series.
Winner: Sri Lanka Will Win
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.
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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