Kamil Mishara’s unbeaten 73 powered Sri Lanka to an emphatic 8-wicket win over Zimbabwe, clinching the T20I series 2-1 with a record-breaking chase.
Sri Lanka corrected its earlier mistakes in style today (7), storming to an emphatic 8-wicket victory in the third T20I against Zimbabwe to clinch the three-match series 2-1 at Harare Sports Club.
Chasing a daunting target of 192 runs, Sri Lanka showed composure and power, wrapping up the match in just 17.2 overs with only two wickets down. The victory not only secured the series but also highlighted the depth and maturity of the batting lineup.
The star of the night was 24-year-old Kamil Mishara, who crafted a brilliant unbeaten 73 off just 43 balls. Playing in only his fifth T20 International, Mishara looked like a seasoned campaigner, smashing two towering sixes and six crisp fours to dismantle the Zimbabwean attack. His innings was marked by calm shot selection, intelligent strike rotation, and fearless finishing.
Supporting him at the other end was the experienced Kusal Janith Perera, who struck a fluent 46 not out. Together, the pair stitched an unbroken 117-run stand for the third wicket off just 63 balls, completely shutting Zimbabwe out of the contest.
Earlier, openers Pathum Nissanka (33) and Kusal Mendis (30) gave Sri Lanka the perfect platform with a quick-fire 58-run opening partnership. Their attacking intent put immediate pressure on Zimbabwe’s bowlers and ensured the chase remained ahead of the asking rate throughout.
Zimbabwe, who batted first after being invited in by Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka, posted 191 for 8 in their 20 overs. The innings was powered by strong top-order contributions, setting a new record for the highest T20I score against Sri Lanka, surpassing their previous best of 178 for 6. Despite the imposing total, their bowlers failed to contain Sri Lanka’s fearless batting display.
This victory marks one of Sri Lanka’s finest T20I chases, combining youthful exuberance with seasoned experience. Mishara’s rise as a reliable top-order batter adds a promising dimension to Sri Lanka’s cricketing future, while the overall team performance sends a strong signal ahead of upcoming international assignments.
