Cricket fans are in for a treat as Sri Lanka takes on Zimbabwe in an exciting limited-overs series at the iconic Harare Sports Club. The tour, running from August 29 to September 7, 2025, will feature 2 ODIs and 3 T20Is, offering fans plenty of action-packed cricket between two competitive sides.
This series is particularly important for both teams—Sri Lanka wants to build momentum ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, while Zimbabwe is aiming to make the most of their home advantage and rediscover winning form. With senior stars, fresh faces, and some high-quality all-rounders in both squads, this promises to be a memorable clash.
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2025: Match Schedule
All matches will be played at the Harare Sports Club, known for its lively atmosphere and sporting pitches. Here’s the full schedule:
ODI Series
- 1st ODI – Friday, August 29, 2025 – 1:00 PM IST (9:30 AM Local)
- 2nd ODI – Sunday, August 31, 2025 – 1:00 PM IST (9:30 AM Local)
T20I Series
- 1st T20I – Wednesday, September 3, 2025 – 5:00 PM IST
- 2nd T20I – Saturday, September 6, 2025 – 5:00 PM IST
- 3rd T20I – Sunday, September 7, 2025 – 5:00 PM IST
With both white-ball formats lined up, the tour will test adaptability, consistency, and depth in both squads.
Sri Lanka Squad for Zimbabwe Tour 2025
Sri Lanka has announced a new-look squad for the Zimbabwe series, with several youngsters joining the ranks. Charith Asalanka has been handed the captaincy role in the absence of star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, who misses out due to a hamstring injury.
Key Players to Watch
- Kusal Mendis – Experienced wicketkeeper-batter, vital in ODIs.
- Pathum Nissanka – A consistent top-order batter who anchors innings.
- Maheesh Theekshana – Mystery spinner with wicket-taking ability.
- Dunith Wellalage – Young all-rounder providing balance in both formats.
- Nuwanidu Fernando – Promising youngster looking to cement his place.
Sri Lanka’s mix of youth and experience makes them favorites on paper, but adapting to Zimbabwean conditions will be crucial.
Zimbabwe Squad for the Series
Zimbabwe enters the series under the leadership of Craig Ervine, who brings plenty of experience to the side. The biggest news for the hosts is the return of veteran Brendan Taylor, who adds stability to the batting unit.
Players to Watch
- Sikandar Raza – Zimbabwe’s biggest match-winner with bat and ball.
- Blessing Muzarabani – Tall fast bowler capable of troubling batters with bounce.
- Brian Bennett – Youngster tipped to be a future star for Zimbabwe.
- Craig Ervine – Captain and reliable left-handed batter.
- Brendan Taylor – Experienced campaigner returning to boost the batting order.
With home advantage and the support of passionate Harare fans, Zimbabwe will be eager to cause an upset against the more fancied Sri Lankans.
Why This Series Matters
- Preparation for Bigger Tournaments – For Sri Lanka, this series acts as the perfect warm-up before the Asia Cup and upcoming ICC events.
- Zimbabwe’s Revival – Zimbabwe has struggled in recent years, but with players like Raza and Taylor, they have the firepower to compete strongly.
- Emerging Talents – Several young cricketers from both sides will get the chance to showcase their skills on the international stage.
- Fan Engagement – Harare Sports Club is known for its electrifying crowd, and full houses are expected for all matches.
Live Telecast and Streaming Details
Cricket fans across the globe will be able to follow the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2025 series live.
- India: Matches will be live-streamed on FanCode.
- Zimbabwe & Sri Lanka: Local broadcasters will telecast matches (official confirmation pending).
- Worldwide: Fans can catch updates on platforms like ESPNcricinfo and Cricbuzz.
Players to Watch in the Series
- Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe): The all-rounder is the heart of Zimbabwean cricket and will be crucial in both ODIs and T20Is.
- Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka): His experience in tricky conditions makes him a vital player at the top of the order.
- Blessing Muzarabani (Zimbabwe): Can extract bounce and seam movement, posing problems for Sri Lanka’s batters.
- Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka): A mystery spinner who could trouble Zimbabwe’s batting lineup.
- Brendan Taylor (Zimbabwe): His comeback adds both experience and hope to Zimbabwe’s batting.
Predicted Battle to Watch
The duel between Sikandar Raza and Maheesh Theekshana will be fascinating. Raza’s ability to dominate spin bowling versus Theekshana’s variations could decide the outcome of matches. Similarly, the pace attack battle between Muzarabani and Sri Lanka’s seamers will be key.
What Experts Are Saying
- Sri Lanka Favorites: With a stronger squad on paper, Sri Lanka starts as favorites, especially with their batting depth.
- Zimbabwe’s X-Factor: Brendan Taylor’s return alongside Sikandar Raza could inspire Zimbabwe to punch above their weight.
- Close Contest Expected: Conditions in Harare can be challenging, and if Zimbabwe’s bowlers fire, the series could be tighter than expected.
Conclusion
The Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2025 series promises to deliver competitive cricket, exciting matchups, and memorable performances. Sri Lanka may be tipped as the stronger side, but Zimbabwe’s home advantage and fighting spirit could set the stage for surprises.
With ODIs and T20Is packed into a 10-day window, fans can look forward to a high-voltage clash that will test skills, stamina, and strategy.
FAQs
Q1. When does the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 2025 series begin?
The series begins on August 29, 2025, with the first ODI in Harare.
Q2. How many matches will be played in the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe series?
There will be 2 ODIs and 3 T20Is between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe.
Q3. Who is captaining Sri Lanka in this series?
Charith Asalanka is leading Sri Lanka in both ODIs and T20Is.
Q4. Where will the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe matches take place?
All matches will be played at the Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.
Q5. How can fans in India watch the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe series?
The matches will be live-streamed on FanCode in India.