TADIWANASHE Marumani struck a fine half-century to anchor Zimbabwe’s innings, but Sri Lanka’s powerful batting line-up proved too strong, sealing an eight-wicket win in their T20 clash on Saturday.
Opening the batting, Marumani played with maturity and patience, scoring 51 from 44 balls with six fours and a six. He provided stability after the early loss of Brian Bennett for 13, putting together important partnerships with Sean Williams (23 off 11) and captain Sikandar Raza (28 off 18).
Marumani’s innings gave Zimbabwe a solid base, allowing the middle order to attack in the final overs. Ryan Burl hammered 26 from 15 balls, while Tashinga Musekiwa’s 18 from 11 and Tony Munyonga’s 13 not out carried Zimbabwe to 191 for eight in their 20 overs.
For Sri Lanka, Dushan Hemantha’s three for 38 made the difference with the ball, while Dushmantha Chameera chipped in with two wickets.
Sri Lanka’s reply was emphatic. Pathum Nissanka (33 off 20) and Kusal Mendis (30 off 17) set the tone before Kamil Mishara stole the show with a blistering 73 not out from 43 balls. He found a perfect ally in Kusal Perera, who smashed 46 from 26 balls, as the pair added 117 runs to complete the chase at 193 for two in just 17.4 overs.
