Colombo: Zimbabwe scripted a memorable six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in their final group stage match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the R. Premadasa Stadium, chasing down a competitive target of 182 with three balls to spare. Captain Sikandar Raza once again led from the front with a blistering 45 off 26 deliveries, earning the Player of the Match award and entering the record books as the oldest captain to win the honour in a T20 World Cup.
The result not only stunned the hosts but also confirmed Zimbabwe’s unbeaten run in the group stage, placing them at the top of Group B ahead of fancied teams like Sri Lanka and Australia.
Commanding chase under pressure
Set a target of 182 on a batting-friendly surface at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Zimbabwe needed a composed yet aggressive approach. Opener Brian Bennett provided the early momentum with a crucial half-century, laying a solid foundation for the chase.
However, with the required run rate climbing in the latter stages, the match demanded a decisive cameo. Raza delivered precisely that, smashing two boundaries and four towering sixes to tilt the balance in Zimbabwe’s favour. His calculated aggression in the death overs ensured the Chevrons crossed the finish line with three balls remaining.
Despite Bennett’s steady contribution at the top, Raza’s impact under pressure earned him the Player of the Match award.
Record-breaking milestone
At 39 years and 301 days, Raza became the oldest captain to win a Player of the Match award in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. In doing so, he surpassed the record held by Rohit Sharma, who had previously set the benchmark during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final.
In that match, Rohit had scored 76 runs against New Zealand and was adjudged Player of the Match at the age of 37 years and 331 days. Raza’s achievement adds another feather to his illustrious career and underlines his continued value to Zimbabwean cricket.
Zimbabwe defy expectations
Before the tournament began, few predicted Zimbabwe would emerge as group leaders. Sri Lanka and Australia were widely regarded as favourites to advance to the Super Eights. However, Zimbabwe upset both heavyweights, showcasing disciplined bowling, fearless batting and sharp fielding.
Their unbeaten run in the group stage has significantly boosted team morale. The Chevrons now advance to the Super Eights, where they are set to face formidable opponents including West Indies, India and South Africa.
Raza, reflecting on the team’s journey so far, expressed pride in his squad’s collective effort.
“If I bring myself to the present, the effort the boys have shown over the last two weeks, I don’t think anybody gave us a chance to be where we are. To win people’s hearts and earn their respect — it’s a wonderful position to be in,” he said during the post-match presentation.
Confidence ahead of Super Eights
Zimbabwe’s success has been built on consistency and belief. Their bowlers have managed to contain high-scoring line-ups, while the batting unit has displayed resilience under pressure. Importantly, the team has shown the ability to adapt to varying match situations — a trait crucial in knockout-style competitions.
With momentum on their side, Zimbabwe enter the next phase of the tournament as genuine contenders rather than underdogs. While tougher challenges await, the confidence gained from victories over established cricketing nations could prove invaluable.
For Sri Lanka, the defeat raises questions about middle-order stability and death bowling execution. The loss at home will prompt introspection as they look to regroup in future tournaments.
As the T20 World Cup progresses into its decisive stages, Zimbabwe’s resurgence serves as a reminder that in the shortest format, discipline, clarity of roles and fearless intent can overturn reputations. With Raza at the helm, the Chevrons have not only rewritten records but also reshaped expectations.
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