The SL vs ZIM match in Match 38 of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 is expected to be an interesting encounter as Sri Lanka face off against Zimbabwe at the historic R Premadasa Stadium on February 19.
Both teams have already qualified for the Super 8 stage, making this final group stage encounter the perfect warm-up before the knockout stage.
SL vs ZIM Match Details
Match: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, Match 38
Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026
Time: 07:00 PM (IST)
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Venue: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Live Telecast: JioStar Network Channels
Live Streaming: JioHotstar (App & Website)
SL vs ZIM Team Preview
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, one of the co-hosts, have been dominating Group B with three successive victories. Their well-balanced team and home advantage make them a force to be reckoned with as they move into the Super 8 rounds. With the momentum in their favor, the Lankan Lions will be looking to continue their winning streak in the SL vs ZIM match.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe have been one of the surprise packages of this tournament. After not being a part of the 2024 edition, they have made a comeback in style by qualifying for the Super 8 round.
The most notable performance of Zimbabwe has been their win over Australia in this tournament, which has shown that they have improved and are full of fighting spirit. They will face a tough challenge against the in-form Sri Lankan team in this SL vs ZIM match.
SL vs ZIM Pitch Report – R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
The R Premadasa Stadium has witnessed four matches in the tournament so far:
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All four matches have been won by the teams who batted first
The wicket has been providing assistance to the bowlers in the early stages
It becomes easier to bat once you get set
The toss might play a crucial role in the match between SL and ZIM, as the captains would like to set the target.
SL vs ZIM Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
| Matches Played | 11 |
| SL Won | 03 |
| ZIM Won | 03 |
| Tied / No Results | 0 |
| First-ever Fixture | October 10, 2008 |
| Last-ever Fixture | November 25, 2025 |
The head-to-head record indicates a closely fought rivalry, adding more intrigue to the SL vs ZIM fixture.
SL vs ZIM Predicted Playing XIs
Sri Lanka Probable XI
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 Probable XI
Brian Bennett
Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk)
Dion Myers
Sikandar Raza (c)
Ryan Burl
Tony Munyonga
Tashinga Musekiwa
Brad Evans
Wellington Masakadza
Graeme Cremer
Blessing Muzarabani
SL vs ZIM Probable Best Performers
Probable Best Batter: Pathum Nissanka
The one to watch out for in the SL vs ZIM match is Sri Lanka’s rising star Pathum Nissanka. He is fresh from a magnificent 113-run innings against Australia and has been in top form throughout the tournament. His ability to hold one end and accelerate the innings makes him a vital cog in the top order.
Probable Best Bowler: Blessing Muzarabani
Zimbabwe’s pace bowler Blessing Muzarabani has been phenomenal:
- 9 wickets in 3 matches
- Match-winning four-wicket haul against Australia
His height, bounce, and accuracy may prove to be a serious threat to the Sri Lankan batting lineup in this SL vs ZIM match.
SL vs ZIM Match Prediction – Who Will Win?
Though Zimbabwe have shown that they can cause upsets against strong teams, the home conditions and performance of Sri Lanka give them a slight edge. Their strength in batting and experienced bowling attack may prove to be the deciding factor for them. But if Zimbabwe’s bowlers can get the early wickets, it may become a closely contested match.
Prediction: Sri Lanka to Win Match 38
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