Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe T20 WC 2026 Preview: Toss Time, Playing 11, Live Streaming & Head-to-Head

The excitement builds as Sri Lanka national cricket team take on Zimbabwe national cricket team in match 38 of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 at the iconic R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

With both teams already securing qualification for the Super 8 stage, this clash is all about finishing the group phase unbeaten and claiming supremacy at the top of the standings.

Sri Lanka Team News and Form Guide

Strong Momentum and Settled Combination

Sri Lanka enter the contest with impressive momentum after dominant victories over Oman, Ireland and Australia. Captain Dasun Shanaka is expected to retain the winning combination that has delivered consistent performances.

Pathum Nissanka’s return to form, highlighted by a match-winning century, has strengthened the top order. Kusal Mendis continues to anchor the innings with consistent fifties, providing reliability at the crease. However, Kusal Perera’s recent lean patch remains a minor concern for the management.

Balanced Bowling Attack

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack appears well-balanced. Dushmantha Chameera leads the pace unit with experience and control, while Matheesha Pathirana adds variation with his slingy action. Spin will once again be crucial in familiar Colombo conditions, with Maheesh Theekshana and Dushan Hemantha expected to control the middle overs effectively.

Zimbabwe Team News and Match Outlook

Confidence After Historic Wins

Zimbabwe arrive brimming with confidence after confirming their Super 8 qualification, including a famous win over Australia. Captain Sikandar Raza will likely continue with a settled core group that has shown resilience throughout the tournament.

Opener Brian Bennett has been in excellent touch, producing unbeaten knocks against Australia and Oman. Tadiwanashe Marumani, Ryan Burl and Craig Ervine have provided stability in the batting order, ensuring consistent starts.

Bowling Spearheaded by Muzarabani

Blessing Muzarabani remains Zimbabwe’s strike bowler, highlighted by his four-wicket haul against Australia. Richard Ngarava and Wellington Masakadza add variety to the attack, making Zimbabwe a balanced side capable of challenging Sri Lanka in home conditions.

Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe – Probable Playing 11

Sri Lanka Playing 11 (Probable)

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Zimbabwe Playing 11 (Probable)

Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Dion Myers, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani

Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Head-to-Head Stats in T20Is

• Total matches: 11

• Sri Lanka won: 8

• Zimbabwe won: 3

• No result: 0

Sri Lanka hold a clear advantage historically, but Zimbabwe’s recent form suggests a competitive encounter.

Full Squads for T20 World Cup 2026

Sri Lanka Squad

Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Janith Perera, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana

Zimbabwe Squad

Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Dion Myers, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tashinga Musekiwa, Wellington Masakadza, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, Tony Munyonga, Clive Madande, Graeme Cremer

SL vs ZIM T20 World Cup 2026 – Match Details

• Match Date: Thursday, February 19

• Venue: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

• Toss Time: 2:30 pm IST

• Match Start Time: 3 pm IST

Live Streaming and Telecast Details in India

• Live Telecast: Star Sports Network

• Live Streaming: JioHotstar app and website

Cricket fans in India can catch all the action live on television and digital platforms.

Conclusion

The Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe clash in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 promises high intensity as both teams aim to finish the group stage unbeaten. Sri Lanka bring home advantage and historical dominance, while Zimbabwe arrive with confidence after a memorable campaign. With strong batting units and balanced bowling attacks on both sides, fans can expect a thrilling contest in Colombo.