With the series level at 1-1, both Sri Lanka (SL) and Zimbabwe (ZIM) aim to secure victory in the third T20I on Thursday, January 18 at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Trailing 0-1 initially, Zimbabwe staged a remarkable comeback in the second match, clinching a nail-biting four-wicket win on the penultimate ball. Key contributions from Luke Jonwe (25* off 12) and Clive Madande (15* off 5) played a pivotal role in their thrilling triumph.

Sri Lanka exhibited dominance, restricting Zimbabwe to 143/6 after 17.4 overs. However, they faltered in the death overs, missing a crucial opportunity. The initial two matches of the series delivered thrilling contests, both reaching nail-biting conclusions. The next fixture anticipates another gripping showdown.

SL vs ZIM Match Details :

Teams: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe

Venue: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

Date & Time: January 18, 7:00 PM

Live Broadcast: Fancode

Streaming: Fancode

R Premadasa Stadium Pitch Report and Conditions

In the venue’s recent history, teams batting second emerged victorious in all of the last five matches. With an average first innings score of 137 and Bangladesh’s successful chase of 215 in March 2018, captains winning the toss are likely to opt for bowling first, considering the venue’s trend.

SL vs ZIM Predicted Playing XI

Sri Lanka (SL):

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Dilshan Madushanka

Zimbabwe (ZIM):

Craig Ervine, Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Brian Bennett , Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Clive Madande (wk), Luke Jongwe, Wellington Masakadza, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani

SL vs ZIM Probable Best Performers

Probable Best Batter: Sikandar Raza

In sublime form, the 37-year-old showcased brilliance with a remarkable innings of 62 (42) in the initial game. His outstanding 2023 included 515 runs from 11 innings, boasting an average of 51.50 and a striking 150.14. With the series hanging in the balance, the Zimbabwe skipper, Raza, aims to replicate his exceptional performance, aiming for a historic series triumph for his team.

Probable Best Bowler: Maheesh Theekshana

Currently, the off-spinner stands as the co-leading wicket-taker in the series, claiming four wickets in two innings at an impressive average of 10.25 and an economy rate of 5.12. Theekshana is determined to sustain his exceptional form, aiming to play a pivotal role in securing the series for his team.

SL VS ZIM BETTING TIPS

Despite Zimbabwe’s commendable effort to level the series in the last match, sustaining that momentum may be challenging. Sri Lanka, being the stronger team, is expected to emerge victorious in this upcoming match.

Bet on Sri Lanka to win.