• Sri Lanka crowned ODI series winners as Pathum Nissanka shine with century.

  • For his consistent batting performance, Nissanka was also adjudged Player of the Series.

Pathum Nissanka’s century powers Sri Lanka to ODI series win over Zimbabwe
Pathum Nissanka's century powers Sri Lanka to ODI series win over Zimbabwe (PC: X.com)

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Sri Lanka registered a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the second ODI of the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025, held at the Harare Sports Club on Sunday. With the win, the visitors also took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

Chasing a target of 278, Sri Lanka rode on a magnificent century from Pathum Nissanka, who was deservedly named Player of the Match.

Zimbabwe’s fighting total built on Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza

Put in to bat first, Zimbabwe posted a competitive 277/7 in 50 overs. Opener Ben Curran anchored the innings with a well-crafted 79 off 95 balls, while Sikandar Raza continued his fine form with a brisk 59 off 55 deliveries, including five fours and a six.

Veteran Brendan Taylor (20) and skipper Sean Williams (20) chipped in with useful contributions, while Clive Madande (36 off 36) provided late fireworks.

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Dushmantha Chameera, who picked up 3/52 in his 10 overs. Asitha Fernando (2/67) and Dilshan Madushanka (1/57) also struck at key moments to keep Zimbabwe in check.

Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka guide the chase

In reply, Sri Lanka began cautiously after losing Nuwanidu Fernando (14) and skipper Kusal Mendis (5) early. However, Pathum Nissanka anchored the innings with a sublime 122 off 136 balls, laced with 16 boundaries.

He received strong support from Charith Asalanka, whose fluent 71 off 61 balls shifted the momentum firmly in Sri Lanka’s favour. A late cameo from Janith Liyanage (19 off 16) ensured the visitors crossed the line with three balls to spare, finishing at 278/5 in 49.3 overs.

For Zimbabwe, Richard Ngarava (2/53) and Brad Evans (2/54) were the standout bowlers, while Ernest Masuku (1/32) provided a key breakthrough.

Also READ: AB de Villiers picks Sachin Tendulkar in his elite list of top five Test players

Player of the Match

Pathum Nissanka’s masterclass at the top of the order was the decisive factor in the chase. His ability to absorb pressure, rotate strike, and punish loose deliveries ensured Sri Lanka never lost control of the game.

Having already won the first ODI by 7 runs, Sri Lanka sealed the two-match series 2-0 with comprehensive win in the second game.

The tour now shifts to the shortest format, with the first T20I scheduled for Wednesday, September 3, at the Harare Sports Club.

Also READ: Fans react as Dilshan Madushanka’s last-over hat-trick guides Sri Lanka to a thrilling win over Zimbabwe in 1st ODI

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ANIRUDH SINGH
Anirudh is the Head of Content at CricketTimes.com. He is a seasoned journalist and content writer with 12 years of experience in the field of cricket. With over 9,000 published articles under his belt, Anirudh brings a creative and strategic approach to his work, always striving to deliver content that resonates with audiences. A die-hard sports fan who loves playing, watching and talking about cricket. Cricket is his Religion & 'Sachin Tendulkar' his GOD. His motto of life is Eat, Sleep, Cricket, REPEAT!! You can write to him at anirudh@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.