The cricket rivalry between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe has always been the reason for memorable encounters, and the second ODI of the ongoing bilateral series is expected to be a thrilling one as well. After a thrilling first ODI in Harare, where Sri Lanka defeated Zimbabwe by just 7 runs, the hosts are eager to bounce back and level the series. The match will be played today, August 31, 2025, at the iconic Harare Sports Club.
This is the last match of the two-match ODI series, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. A win for Sri Lanka will give them a clean sweep, while Zimbabwe will struggle to end the series on a positive note in front of their home crowd.
Match Details
Match: SL vs Zim, 2nd ODI, 2025
Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM IST | 7:30am GMT
Venue: Harare Sports Club, Harare
Series status: SL lead 1-0
1st ODI summary: Madushanka’s magical hat-trick
The first ODI turned out to be a thrilling one. Batting first, SL posted a competitive score with contributions from Pathum Nissanka and Janith Liyanage. Zim looked in good shape chasing the target thanks to brilliant knocks from Ben Curran and Sikandar Raza.
However, the game changed in the last over when Dilshan Madushanka took a brilliant hat-trick to give SL a 7-run win. This incredible spell not only gave the visitors a 1-0 lead but also laid the foundation for today’s thrilling encounter.
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Head-to-head record
SL and Zim have faced each other 65 times in ODI cricket. SL have dominated this rivalry, winning 50 matches, while Zimbabwe have won on 12 occasions. Three matches have ended in a no result.
Despite Sri Lanka’s historical edge, Zim have shown in recent years that they can give Sri Lanka every possible challenge, especially in home conditions.
Harare Sports Club: Pitch Report and Conditions
Harare Sports Club is known for its sporting wickets that favor both batsmen and bowlers. In the first ODI, we saw a balanced contest where runs were made and bowlers got movement even with overcast conditions.
- The new ball is likely to swing, making early wickets a must.
- Batting gets easier as the game progresses, which benefits teams chasing targets.
- The spinners could play a key role in the middle overs, especially if the pitch slows down.
- The weather forecast is for a clear day, so we can expect a full match without any rain.
Given the conditions, the toss could play a crucial role. Teams may prefer to bowl first and chase the target under lights.
Probable Playing XI Zimbabwe
- Brian Bennett
- Ben Curran
- Brendan Taylor (wk)
- Sean Williams (c)
- Sikandar Raza
- Wesley Madhevere
- Tony Munyonga
- Brad Evans
- Richard Ngarava
- Blessing Muzarabani
- Trevor Gwandu
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka
- Nishan Madushka (wk)
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk)
- Charith Asalanka (c)
- Zenith Liyanage
- Kamindu Mendis
- Dushmantha Chameera
- Mahesh Theekshana
- Asitha Fernando
- Dilshan Madushanka
Key players to watch Sri Lanka
- Dilshan Madushanka – Hero of the first ODI, his hat-trick under pressure showed why he is SL trump card in tough times.
- Pathum Nissanka – A consistent top-order batsman who has the ability to anchor the innings and score quickly later.
- Charith Asalanka – The captain will be keen to lead from the front with both the bat and leadership.
Zimbabwe
- Sikandar Raza – The most experienced player in the Zim squad, capable of changing the course of the game with both bat and ball.
- Ben Curran – Played a combative knock in the opening ODI and will again play a key role in setting the platform.
- Blessing Muzarabani and Richard Ngarava – This pace duo will need to attack early on to destabilise SL batting order.
Series context and what’s at stake
For SL, today’s match is a chance to win the series 2-0, which will be a confidence booster ahead of the matches ahead. However, for Zim it is a question of pride and perseverance. After coming so close in the first ODI, the hosts will be desperate to perform well in front of their home crowd.
This match is also important for the ICC ODI rankings of both teams, as both teams have valuable points. A win for Zim will not only level the series but also boost their position and morale.
Prediction:
While Zim have the talent to beat Sri Lanka convincingly, the visitors’ batting and bowling depth gives them a slight edge. Another nail-biting contest is expected, but SL might hold on to the lead and seal the series 2-0.
Final Words
SL vs Zim 2nd ODI 2025 will see another thrilling encounter. With the series at stake and both teams eager to prove a point, cricket fans can expect a terrific afternoon filled with great action, individual brilliance, and exciting moments. Whether it’s Madushanka’s blistering pace, Raza’s all-round display, or Nissanka’s brilliant batting, this match has all the elements of a classic ODI encounter.
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