Zimbabwe will host Sri Lanka in the opening ODI of their 2025 series at Harare Sports Club. While Zimbabwe return with Brendan Taylor in the mix after a competitive Ireland series, they remain underdogs against a Sri Lankan side fresh from dominant white-ball performances, comfortable series wins, and a blend of experienced stars and dynamic new players. In their last meeting, Sri Lanka thrashed Zimbabwe by eight wickets, and history strongly favors the visitors.
Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka Win Probability: 1st ODI
ZIM vs SL Batting Tips: 1st ODI
Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI Match Details
Match | Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025- 1st ODI |
Date | Friday, August 29, 2025 |
Time | 01:00 PM (IST), 09:30 AM (Local) |
Venue | Harare Sports Club, Harare |
Live Streaming (TV) | NA |
Live Streaming (Mobile) | Fancode |
ZIM vs SL Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
Despite home advantage, Zimbabwe’s top order is inexperienced and inconsistent. Bennett and Curran offer potential but are light on proven impact. Sikandar Raza and Sean Williams are reliable but carry too much burden, with Raza out of form and Williams into his late 30s. Brendan Taylor’s return adds a narrative but little certainty. Zimbabwe’s bowling relies on Ngarava and Muzarabani, with pace options thinning out and struggles evident when early movement fades.
In contrast, Sri Lanka boast a rounded lineup: technical openers Nissanka and Madushka, experienced engine room of Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama, and a finishing pack including Liyanage and Asalanka. Spin led by Theekshana and Wellalage will exploit a tired Zimbabwe middle order, while seamers Asitha Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka are reliable with the new ball. Sri Lanka’s superior depth with bat and ball makes them clear favorites.
Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka Head to Head (ODI)
Total Match Played | 64 |
ZIM Won | 12 |
SL Won | 49 |
Draw/No Result | 03 |
Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka Teams Preview (Top Players to Bat On)
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s chances depend on senior hands Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza, as well as the impact of returning Brendan Taylor. The top order needs Bennett or Madhevere to fire, but recent form is patchy, and captain Ervine’s runs have been scarce. With the ball, Ngarava and Muzarabani shoulder most of the challenge.
ZIM Probable Playing XI-
Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine (C), Wessly Madhevere, Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams, Brendan Taylor (WK), Richard Ngarava, Newman Nyamhuri, Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu
Top Player to Bat On- Sean Williams & Craig Ervine
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s balance is built on solid opening partnerships and a dynamic middle order, with Kusal Mendis leading from the front. Asalanka and Liyanage add finishing power. Theekshana’s spin and Madushanka’s seam are major threats, and the bowling attack is strong in all phases.
SL Probable Playing XI-
Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (C & WK), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka
Top Player to Bat On- Charith Asalanka & Sadeera Samarawickrama
ZIM vs SL Weather & Pitch Report
Harare Sports Club presents a track with early movement for seamers, settling into a truer surface as the match progresses. Spinners can be effective with smart use of changing conditions. Par first-innings score will be 240-260, with recent numbers supporting competitive totals in that range. Temperatures in the high 20s Celsius, humidity near 50%, and just a minimal rain risk.
ZIM vs SL Fantasy Teams
Fantasy 11 suggestions are only for users outside India per the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.
- Wicket-keeper- Kusal Mendis, Brendan Taylor
- Batter– Charith Asalanka (VC), Sean Williams (C), Pathum Nissanka, Brian Bennett
- All–rounder– Sikandar Raza, Janith Liyanage
- Bowler- Maheesh Theekshana, Blessing Muzarabani, Asitha Fernando
Pro Tip- Check your fantasy team after playing XIs are released, about 30 minutes before match start, for the latest changes and updates.
Disclaimer-These predictions and fantasy team suggestions are provided for entertainment purposes only and intended for users outside India. We do not promote or facilitate any illegal activity or violations of Indian law.
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