Sri Lanka will face Zimbabwe in Match 38 of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 on February 19 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The match will begin at 3:00 PM IST, with the toss scheduled for 2:30 PM IST.
This is the final league match of Group B. Sri Lanka have been one of the most impressive teams in the group, winning all three of their matches against Oman, Ireland and Australia. With six points and a strong net run rate, they have already qualified for the Super 8 and will aim to finish the group stage with a perfect record.
Zimbabwe have also performed well, registering two wins from three matches and securing their place in the Super 8. This game will be important for both teams as they look to build momentum and fight for the top position in the group.
Match Details
| Match | Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, Match 38 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | ICC T20 World Cup 2026 |
| Date | 19 February 2026 |
| Time | 3:00 PM IST (Toss: 2:30 PM) |
| Venue | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar (App & Website) |
| TV Broadcast | Star Sports Network |
Group B Scenario
Sri Lanka are currently at the top of the table with three wins in three matches. Playing at home, they will look to continue their dominant form and carry confidence into the Super 8.
Zimbabwe have shown great fighting spirit in the tournament and have already secured qualification. A win here could help them finish higher in the standings and boost their confidence ahead of the next stage.
Also see: SL vs ZIM Toss Prediction Match 38th T20 World Cup 2026
SL vs Zim Head-to-Head Record T20Is
| Matches | Sri Lanka Won | Zimbabwe Won |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 8 | 3 |
Sri Lanka hold a strong advantage in the rivalry, especially at home, where their spin attack has traditionally been effective.
SL vs ZIM Pitch Report Today Match
The Colombo surface has been balanced but slightly spin-friendly during the tournament. The pitch tends to slow down as the match progresses, allowing spinners to play a major role in the middle overs.
Pacers may get some early movement with the new ball, but batting becomes challenging once the ball gets older. The average first-innings score at this venue has been around 165–170, and totals above 170 can be competitive.
Dew could play a role in the second innings, but teams may still prefer to bat first and put runs on the board. Expect spinners to have a big impact in this contest.
Also see: SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction Today Match 38th
SL vs ZIM Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pawan Ratnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Pramod Madushan
Impact option: Additional bowling option
Zimbabwe
Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Dion Myers, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani
Impact option: Richard Ngarava
Players to Watch
Sri Lanka:
Captain Dasun Shanaka’s all-round contribution, Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage with spin, and the top-order pair of Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis.
Zimbabwe:
Sikandar Raza’s experience and all-round ability, Blessing Muzarabani’s pace with the new ball, and Ryan Burl’s spin and finishing skills.
Key Match Factors
- Spinners are expected to dominate on the slow surface.
- A first-innings total of 160–170 could be match-winning.
- Early wickets will be crucial to control the opposition’s momentum.
Match Prediction
Sri Lanka enter the contest as favourites due to their unbeaten form, home conditions and strong spin attack. Their balanced squad and familiarity with the conditions give them a clear advantage.
Zimbabwe have been impressive in the tournament and have the ability to compete, especially if their bowlers strike early.
However, if Sri Lanka post a total around 170 or more, they are likely to secure another win and finish the group stage with a perfect record in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
