Bennett, Raza, and Evans Star as Zimbabwe Clinch Record T20I Win Over Sri Lanka
Rawalpindi, Pakistan – November 21, 2025
Zimbabwe delivered a comprehensive and commanding performance to secure their biggest ever T20 International victory over a Full Member nation, defeating a struggling Sri Lanka side by a massive 67 runs in the ongoing Tri-Series in Rawalpindi. The statement win was powered by a crucial batting partnership between Brian Bennett and captain Sikandar Raza, and a devastating spell of bowling from paceman Brad Evans.
Bennett and Raza Set the Tone
After being sent in to bat, Zimbabwe posted a competitive total of 162/8 on a sluggish Rawalpindi pitch. The innings was anchored by a fantastic third-wicket partnership between the youthful opener Brian Bennett and the experienced captain, Sikandar Raza.
- Brian Bennett continued his fine form in the series, smashing 49 off 42 balls, narrowly missing out on his half-century.
- Skipper Sikandar Raza was the aggressive foil, scoring a brilliant 47 off 32 balls. The pair’s 61-run stand off 43 balls was the foundation that allowed Zimbabwe to put a respectable target on the board. Raza’s all-round display later earned him the Player of the Match award—his 19th in T20I cricket.
Despite Wanindu Hasaranga (3/32) leading a middle-order fightback for Sri Lanka, late cameos ensured Zimbabwe reached a total that proved well beyond Sri Lanka’s reach.
Brad Evans Leads the Bowling Blitz
Sri Lanka’s chase of 163 never found momentum, as the Zimbabwean bowlers applied relentless pressure from the start. They were eventually bowled out for just 95 on the final ball of the 20th over.
The collapse was spearheaded by fast bowler Brad Evans, who delivered a remarkable spell of controlled aggression and swing. Evans finished with figures of 3 wickets for just 9 runs in his four overs, completely dismantling the lower order.
He was ably supported by the entire bowling unit, with all six bowlers used by Raza picking up at least one wicket. Richard Ngarava (2/15) set the tone early, removing Pathum Nissanka, and the pressure proved too much for a Sri Lankan side reeling from a recent ODI series whitewash.
Only stand-in captain Dasun Shanaka (34 off 25) showed any real resistance, as his teammates struggled against the disciplined Zimbabwean attack. His dismissal effectively ended any faint hope for Sri Lanka, who failed to get into the chase.
Zimbabwe’s 67-run victory is a huge confidence booster and their third win over Sri Lanka this year, sending a clear message about their recent rise in competitiveness on the global stage. Following the win, Zimbabwe now sit atop the Tri-Series points table.
