Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe became the turning point of Sri Lanka’s campaign, keeping them alive in the T20 tri-series. His incredible batting display helped Sri Lanka chase the target comfortably and stay in the hunt for a place in the final.
Nissanka’s Brilliance Powers Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka finally earned their first win of the tri-series thanks to Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe, a stunning unbeaten knock off 58 balls. His innings included four sixes and 11 boundaries, leading Sri Lanka to 148-1 with 22 balls remaining. The innings looked even more valuable because Zimbabwe had earlier struggled to reach 146-5 on the same surface.
Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe set the tone right from the start. He played aggressively against the pace bowlers but showed patience against spin, especially during Sikandar Raza’s economical spell of 0-17. Even during the slower middle overs, Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe ensured Sri Lanka stayed ahead of the required rate. He reached his half-century in 38 balls and shifted gears once the seamers returned.
Nissanka built an unbeaten 89-run partnership with Kusal Mendis, who scored 25 not out. Their stand completely sealed the game for Sri Lanka. Zimbabwe bowlers had no answers as Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe kept the pressure on throughout the chase. The only wicket to fall was Kamil Mishara for 12, dismissed by a brilliant tumbling catch from Wellington Masakadza.
Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka praised the team’s discipline, especially in the bowling department. He highlighted Maheesh Theekshana’s early breakthroughs and appreciated the way Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe guided the chase with confidence and control.
Zimbabwe’s fast bowlers had an off day. Richard Ngarava conceded 44 runs in just 3.2 overs, including three huge sixes from Nissanka. Brad Evans gave away 36 runs and took one wicket, while Tinotenda Maposa was expensive in the powerplay, conceding 29 runs in two overs. None of them could stop the momentum created by Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe, which proved to be too strong to handle.
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Zimbabwe Falter Despite Fighting Cameos
Zimbabwe’s innings never really found rhythm. Maheesh Theekshana provided Sri Lanka with a perfect start by taking 2-23 and dismissing both openers cheaply. His tight bowling added pressure early, setting the stage for Sri Lanka’s dominant chase powered later by Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe.
Senior batter Brendan Taylor survived two lbw decisions through reviews but was bowled around his legs attempting a ramp shot off Shanaka. Wanindu Hasaranga then took control in the middle overs, finishing with 2-23 and not allowing Zimbabwe to accelerate. His spell added crucial value to Sri Lanka’s eventual run chase led by Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe.
A bizarre moment arrived when Brian Bennett was out hit wicket. He scored 34 off 26 but accidentally struck the stumps with his bat while trying to go deep in his crease against a quicker delivery. Zimbabwe’s innings lost momentum again despite this brief partnership.
Captain Sikandar Raza fought hard with 37 off 29 balls, trying to rebuild the innings. However, he fell in the 15th over while slicing a shot to short third man. Later, Ryan Burl added some valuable runs, finishing with an unbeaten 37 off 26 balls. Despite his efforts, the total of 146-5 was too low, especially with Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe waiting to dominate the second innings.
After the match, Raza admitted that Zimbabwe were “slightly short” and did not bowl well in the powerplay. He also noted that Zimbabwe now rely on other results to reach the final. With Pakistan already through after three wins, Zimbabwe hope Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka — the same team that rode on Pathum Nissanka 98 vs Zimbabwe to stay alive — so they can qualify on superior net run rate.
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source: The Indian Express
