Zimbabwe has decided to bat first in the third ODI against Sri Lanka after winning the toss at Kettarama under cloudy skies.
Zimbabwe made three changes to their team. They brought in left-arm spinner Wellington Masakadza for offspinner Tapiwa Mufudza, replaced Faraz Akram with Luke Jongwe, and Takudzwanashe Kaitano took the place of Tinashe Kamunhukamwe at the top of the order.
Sri Lanka also made two changes. Opener Shevon Daniel made his debut, allowing captain Kusal Mendis to move back to No. 3. Former captain Dasun Shanaka, who had struggled in the series, was left out. Fit-again Wanindu Hasaranga returned, providing a boost to the lower order and adding a spin option.
Zimbabwe must win this match to level the series after losing the second game. Rain had affected the previous matches at Kettarama, and there were concerns about rain playing a part in this game as well.
Sri Lanka’s playing XI: Avishka Fernando, Janith Liyanage, Shevon Daniel, Kusal Mendis (capt/wk), Charith Asalanka,Sadeera Samarawickrama, Sahan Arachchige, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dilshan Madushanka,Maheesh Theekshana
Zimbabwe’s playing XI: Joylord Gumbie, Milton Shumba,Craig Ervine (capt), Sikandar Raza, Takudzwanashe Kaitano,Clive Madande (wk), 8 Luke Jongwe,Richard Nagarawa, Blessing Muzarabani, Wellington Masakadza,Ryan Burl.
