Zimbabwe defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in the second Twenty20 International on Tuesday, January 16 at the R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
With the win, they have leveled the three-match series at 1-1.
After being selected to bat first, Sri Lanka managed to score a respectable 173/6 in 20 overs.
Their top-order crumbled on the powerplay, leaving them in a perilous situation at 27/4 after 4.4 overs.
Angelo Mathews (66) and Charith Asalanka (69) saved them with a 118-run stand for the fifth wicket. The duo’s efforts helped them post a solid first innings total.
Zimbabwe opener Craig Ervine then scored a magnificent 70 (54 runs) to build the groundwork for his team’s chase.
However, Sri Lankan bowlers responded, reducing the visiting squad to 154/6 after 19 overs.
With 20 runs needed from the last over, Sri Lanka held the advantage when skipper Wanindu Hasaranga entrusted Angelo Mathews to bowl.
Luke Jongwe smashed a six on the opening pitch, which was also a no-ball.
He then struck two fours and a dot before getting a single when Maheesh Theekshan lost his catch.
Clive Madande finished the match in style by hitting a six-over deep midwicket on the fifth ball of the twentieth over.
When we have our backs against the wall, Zimbabwe has a history of fighting back—Sikandar Raza following victory against Sri Lanka in the second T20I
During the post-match presentation, Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza expressed optimism in the team’s ability to turn things around.
We came close in the previous one, but today was fantastic.
If you say so, I’d rather win the first two games.
It did not slip out of our grasp today. We knew the opening six and seven overs would be vital.
Even halfway through, I advised the boys to be positive, and I remained cool.
An exciting contest benefits both the game and the audience.
I wanted our squad to get 80 in the first ten overs.
We were fairly relaxed. Zimbabwe has a history of overcoming adversity.
The third and final T20I of the series will be contested on Thursday (January 18) at the same venue.
Also Read: Where to Watch SL vs ZIM 3rd T20 Match Live Streaming and TV Channel List?