As the ongoing Pakistan T20I tri-series moves into its penultimate stage, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe are fighting hard for survival. Both teams are set to meet each other in the fifth match of the series on Tuesday in Rawalpindi. For Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, the equation could not be simpler or rather more brutal. With Pakistan already cruising into the final after dominating the series with three consecutive wins, they will be watching closely as to which team they will face in the final.
For these other two sides, however, the fifth match of the tournament represents nothing less than a fight for survival. Sri Lanka enter this contest winless, finding themselves on the brink. Their campaign so far has been a tale of misfires and misfortunes, beginning with a thumping at the hands of Pakistan. That defeat, in hindsight, feels almost gentle compared to the hammering they got from Zimbabwe.
Notably, Sri Lanka have looked short of confidence. Their batting has lacked consistency, and their bowling has struggled for control, making things worse for them. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, have shown incredible grit throughout the series. They have the morale-boosting memory of having beaten Sri Lanka once already, and that victory will be crucial for them heading into Tuesday. And a repeat of that performance would send them straight into the final.
Head-to-head
Matches - 10
SL won - 7
ZIM won - 3
Sri Lanka possible XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dasun Shanaka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth
Zimbabwe possible XI: Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Richard Ngarava, Wellington Masakadza