Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe: Madushanka’s Hat-Trick Sparks ODI Thriller
Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe’s cricket rivalry has always been thrilling, resulting in thrilling matches and unpredictable outcomes. When Dilshan Madushanka scored an incredible hat-trick in the final over to give Sri Lanka a 7-run victory in the first ODI at Harare Sports Club on August 29, 2025, supporters witnessed another chapter in this exciting rivalry.
This match was not just about numbers on the scoreboard; it was a roller-coaster of emotions, resilience, and brilliance under pressure. Let’s dive deep into the highlights, turning points, and what lies ahead in the ongoing Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe series.
Match Summary: First ODI – Harare
- Sri Lanka: 298/6 in 50 overs
- Zimbabwe: 291/8 in 50 overs
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 7 runs
Sri Lanka batted first and set a challenging total of 298 runs, thanks to a solid middle-order performance. Pathum Nissanka (76) anchored the innings, while Kamindu Mendis (57 off 36) and Janith Liyanage (70 off 47)* provided the late fireworks that pushed the team close to the 300-mark.
Zimbabwe responded bravely, led by their talisman Sikandar Raza, who played a fighting knock of 92 runs. At one stage, Zimbabwe seemed well on course to chase down the target. However, Madushanka’s magical last over turned the match on its head.
Madushanka’s Heroics: A Hat-Trick to Remember
With Zimbabwe needing just 8 runs from the final over, the game looked evenly poised. But Dilshan Madushanka rose to the occasion:
- First Ball – He dismissed Sikandar Raza, the danger man, who was just 8 runs short of a match-winning century.
- Second Ball – He cleaned up Brad Evans, sending shockwaves across the stadium.
- Third Ball – He trapped Richard Ngarava, completing a rare hat-trick in the final over of an ODI.
Madushanka’s figures read 4 for 62, and he was deservedly named Player of the Match. His ability to hold his nerve in high-pressure moments is being hailed as one of the finest fast-bowling displays in recent Sri Lankan cricket history.
Zimbabwe’s Fighting Spirit
Despite the heartbreak, Zimbabwe showed tremendous character. Their chase was powered by Raza’s 92 and crucial cameos from the middle order. The team has been steadily improving in white-ball cricket, and this performance highlighted their fighting spirit.
Had it not been for Madushanka’s brilliance, Zimbabwe could have pulled off a historic win. They will surely look to bounce back in the second ODI on August 31.
Sri Lanka Squad Update: Hasaranga Sidelined
A major talking point in the Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe series is the absence of Wanindu Hasaranga, who is nursing a hamstring injury. The star all-rounder has been ruled out of the Zimbabwe ODIs but has been included in Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2025 T20 squad starting next month in Abu Dhabi.
In Hasaranga’s absence, Charith Asalanka is leading a youthful but talented squad. The win in the first ODI will boost their confidence ahead of the second game and the upcoming T20I series.
Key Players to Watch
For Sri Lanka:
- Dilshan Madushanka – After his hat-trick heroics, he will be Zimbabwe’s biggest threat in the remaining matches.
- Pathum Nissanka – Consistent at the top, anchoring innings with stability.
- Janith Liyanage – Emerging as a strong middle-order finisher.
For Zimbabwe:
- Sikandar Raza – The heartbeat of Zimbabwe cricket; his all-round skills make him a match-winner.
- Ryan Burl – Known for his explosive batting in the middle order.
- Blessing Muzarabani – Zimbabwe’s pace spearhead who can trouble Sri Lankan batters.
What’s Next in the Series?
- 2nd ODI: August 31, 2025 – Harare Sports Club
- 3rd ODI: (If scheduled, depending on format, may include only 2 ODIs)
- T20I Series: To follow the ODIs, featuring three matches between the two sides.
The series holds great significance for both teams:
- For Sri Lanka, it is crucial preparation ahead of the Asia Cup 2025.
- For Zimbabwe, it is an opportunity to prove themselves against a higher-ranked opponent and boost their ICC rankings.
Historical Context: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Rivalry
The Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe rivalry dates back to the 1980s. While Sri Lanka has dominated most of the head-to-head encounters, Zimbabwe has always been capable of springing surprises. Memorable upsets, like their 1999 World Cup victory over Sri Lanka, are reminders of how dangerous Zimbabwe can be on their day.
This current series adds another exciting chapter, especially with Zimbabwe’s resurgence in international cricket and Sri Lanka’s rebuilding phase.
