HARARE: Kamindu Mendis’ explosive unbeaten knock of 41 from just 16 balls guided Sri Lanka to a four-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the first T20 international at Harare Sports Club on Wednesday.
Chasing 176, opener Pathum Nissanka provided early momentum with a 32-ball 55, including four boundaries and two sixes, while Kusal Mendis added 38. Despite a middle-order slump that left Sri Lanka at 106-4, Kamindu’s late fireworks — featuring four sixes — turned the tide. Dushan Hemantha chipped in with 15 not out to complete the chase in 19.1 overs, as Sri Lanka finished on 177-6.
Earlier, Brian Bennett top-scored for Zimbabwe with a fine 81 off 57 deliveries, striking 12 fours. Skipper Sikandar Raza contributed 28, but a late collapse restricted the hosts to 175-7 after a strong start.
For Sri Lanka, Dushmantha Chameera starred with the ball, claiming 3-30. Richard Ngarava stood out for Zimbabwe with 2-20, while Raza and Brad Evans picked up a wicket apiece.
The match also marked T20I debuts for Sri Lanka’s Dushan Hemantha and Nuwanidu Fernando.
The second T20 will be played on Friday at the same venue, with Zimbabwe aiming to level the three-match series.
Sri Lanka XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara
Zimbabwe XI: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Sean Williams, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani
