Introduction
Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025 kicks off today at the iconic Harare Sports Club, promising an exciting battle in the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025. As cricket fans gear up for this white-ball opener, all eyes are on whether the hosts can leverage home advantage against a formidable Sri Lankan side. With Brendan Taylor’s much-anticipated return for Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka’s in-form stars like Kusal Mendis, this match could set the tone for the two-ODI series.
Why is this game a must-watch? Zimbabwe, led by Craig Ervine, are eager to bounce back from recent challenges, blending experience with youth. Sri Lanka, under Charith Asalanka, arrive as favorites with a strong recent record. The series follows Zimbabwe’s red-ball outings and precedes Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup preparations, adding extra stakes.
In this comprehensive ZIM vs SL match preview, we’ll cover everything from squads to pitch report, weather, head-to-head stats, key players, fantasy tips, and predictions. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or building your Dream11 team, we’ve got insights to keep you ahead. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore what makes Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025 unmissable!
Match Overview: Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025
The Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025 is the opening game of a compact two-match ODI series, part of Sri Lanka’s tour that also includes three T20Is. Scheduled for August 29, 2025, at Harare Sports Club, the match starts at 9:30 AM local time (7:30 AM GMT, 1:00 PM IST). It’s a day game, with sessions from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM, a 30-minute lunch, and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
This tour marks Sri Lanka’s return to Zimbabwe after their last visit in 2024, where they dominated. Zimbabwe aim to use home conditions to challenge, especially after welcoming back veterans. Recent form shows Sri Lanka with WWWLW, while Zimbabwe have LLWLW in ODIs.
Can Zimbabwe upset the odds? The series is crucial for both in building toward future ICC events.
Series Background
Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025 features two ODIs and three T20Is, starting today. Zimbabwe last hosted Sri Lanka in 2024, losing the ODI series 2-0 (one no-result). This time, Zimbabwe bolster their squad with returns like Taylor and Ngarava.
Today’s Fixture Details
Venue: Harare Sports Club (Capacity: 10,000). Umpires: Richard Kettleborough (England), Langton Rusere (Zimbabwe). TV Umpire: Forster Mutizwa. Referee: Jeff Crowe.
Broadcast and Live Streaming
In India: FanCode app/website.
Sri Lanka: TV Supreme, SandBrix streaming.
Global: Check ESPNcricinfo for scores. Don’t miss the action – stream now!
Team Previews: Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka Squads for 1st ODI
Both teams bring balanced squads to Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025. Zimbabwe mix experience with emerging talent, while Sri Lanka rely on depth.
Zimbabwe Squad Breakdown
Led by Craig Ervine, Zimbabwe welcome Brendan Taylor back after 2021. Key all-rounders: Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams. Pacers: Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava (fit again). Strengths: Home knowledge, spin options. Weaknesses: Inconsistent batting.
Full Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Craig Ervine (c) | Middle-order Batter |
| Brian Bennett | Allrounder |
| Johnathan Campbell | Allrounder |
| Ben Curran | Top-order Batter |
| Brad Evans | Allrounder |
| Trevor Gwandu | Bowler |
| Wessly Madhevere | Allrounder |
| Clive Madande † | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Ernest Masuku | Bowler |
| Tony Munyonga | Allrounder |
| Blessing Muzarabani | Bowler |
| Richard Ngarava | Bowler |
| Newman Nyamhuri | Bowler |
| Sikandar Raza | Batting Allrounder |
| Brendan Taylor † | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Sean Williams | Allrounder |
Probable XI: Bennett, Curran, Ervine (c), Taylor, Raza, Williams, Madande (wk), Madhevere, Evans, Ngarava, Muzarabani.
Sri Lanka Squad Strengths
Captain Charith Asalanka leads a star-studded side.
Batters: Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka.
Bowlers: Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera.
Strengths: Batting depth, spin attack.
Weaknesses: Adapting to seaming conditions.
Full Squad:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Charith Asalanka (c) | Batting Allrounder |
| Pathum Nissanka | Top-order Batter |
| Kusal Mendis † | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Nuwanidu Fernando | Batter |
| Kamindu Mendis | Allrounder |
| Janith Liyanage | Batting Allrounder |
| Dunith Wellalage | Bowler |
| Maheesh Theekshana | Bowler |
| Jeffrey Vandersay | Bowler |
| Dushmantha Chameera | Bowler |
| Asitha Fernando | Bowler |
| Dilshan Madushanka | Bowler |
| Milan Rathnayake | Bowler |
| Pavan Rathnayake | Top-order Batter |
| Sadeera Samarawickrama † | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Nishan Madushka † | Wicketkeeper Batter |
Probable XI: Nissanka, Fernando, Mendis (wk), Asalanka (c), K Mendis, Liyanage, Wellalage, Theekshana, Chameera, A Fernando, Madushanka.
Probable Playing XI Comparison
Zimbabwe focus on all-rounders; Sri Lanka on specialists. Who has the edge?
Harare Pitch Report for ZIM vs SL 1st ODI 2025
The Harare ODI pitch report is key for Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025. Harare Sports Club offers a balanced surface, aiding seamers early and spinners later.
Historical Pitch Behavior
In 203 ODIs, average 1st innings: 229. Teams bowling first win 106 times vs 91 batting first. Early moisture helps pacers; pitch dries for batting.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches | 203 |
| Batting 1st Wins | 91 |
| Bowling 1st Wins | 106 |
| Avg 1st Innings | 229 |
| Highest Total | 408/6 (AUS vs ZIM) |
| Lowest Total | 55 (ZIM vs SA) |
Expected Conditions Today
Seamer-friendly in powerplay, then batsman-friendly. Spinners grip in middle overs. Expect 270-290 if batting first.
Venue Stats
At Harare vs SL: 17 matches, SL wins 14, ZIM 3.
How will captains strategize? Bowl first likely.
Weather Forecast for Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI in Harare
Weather plays a big role in today’s cricket match prediction. For August 29, 2025, Harare promises ideal conditions.
Hourly Weather Breakdown
Morning: 25-28°C, sunny, 0% rain. Afternoon: 28-30°C, clear skies, winds 4-13 km/h ENE.
| Time | Temp (°C) | Conditions | Rain % | Wind (km/h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:30 AM | 25 | Sunny | 0 | 13 ENE |
| 12:00 PM | 28 | Clear | 0 | 11 E |
| 3:00 PM | 30 | Sunny | 0 | 4 E |
Potential Game Interruptions
No rain forecast – full 50 overs expected. Low humidity (42%) favors high scores.
How Weather Affects Strategy
Clear skies mean dry pitch, suiting batsmen. Stay updated via apps!
ZIM vs SL Head-to-Head: Stats and Key Player Battles
ZIM vs SL head to head favors Sri Lanka heavily.
Overall H2H Stats
64 ODIs: SL 49 wins, ZIM 12, 3 NR. Last 5: SL 4-1.
| Category | SL Wins | ZIM Wins | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total ODIs | 49 | 12 | 3 |
| At Harare | 14 | 3 | 0 |
| Last Match (2024) | SL by 8 wkts | – | – |
At Harare Venue
SL dominates with 14/17 wins.
Must-Watch Matchups
- Sikandar Raza vs Maheesh Theekshana: All-rounder vs mystery spinner.
- Kusal Mendis vs Blessing Muzarabani: Form batter vs tall pacer.
- Craig Ervine vs Dilshan Madushanka: Captain vs swing bowler.
Who will shine? These battles could decide the game.
Key Players to Watch in ZIM vs SL 1st ODI
Spotlight on performers for Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025.
Top Batters
- Brian Bennett (ZIM): 327 runs in 9 matches, avg 36.33.
- Kusal Mendis (SL): 477 runs in 9, avg 59.63.
Key Bowlers
- Richard Ngarava (ZIM): 11 wkts in 9, econ 5.18.
- Asitha Fernando (SL): 19 wkts in 9, econ 5.3.
All-Rounders and Players to Watch
- Sikandar Raza (ZIM): Batting firepower + spin.
- Charith Asalanka (SL): Captain with 392 runs in 10.
Brendan Taylor’s return adds intrigue – can he stabilize?
ZIM vs SL Dream11 Prediction and Fantasy Tips for 1st ODI
Building your team? Here’s ZIM vs SL dream11 prediction.
Top Picks for Batters and Bowlers
Batters: Mendis, Nissanka, Ervine. Bowlers: Theekshana, Muzarabani, Ngarava.
- Captain: Kusal Mendis (consistent).
- Vice-Captain: Sikandar Raza (all-round points).
- Must-Picks: Theekshana (wickets on dry pitch), Bennett (explosive start).
Sample Dream11 Team
| Category | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Kusal Mendis (VC), Brendan Taylor |
| Bat | Pathum Nissanka, Craig Ervine, Brian Bennett |
| AR | Sikandar Raza (C), Charith Asalanka, Sean Williams |
| Bowl | Blessing Muzarabani, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando |
Tips: Prioritize all-rounders; pick seamers if bowling first. Adjust for toss!
Build your team now – share in comments!
Today’s Match Prediction: Who Will Win ZIM vs SL 1st ODI?
In today’s cricket match prediction, Sri Lanka are favorites.
Expert Analysis
SL’s form and H2H edge give them 70% win chance. ZIM could surprise at home (30%).
Probable Winner
Sri Lanka to win by 4-6 wickets or 30-50 runs.
Score Prediction
If SL bat first: 270-290. ZIM chase: 240-260.
What do you think? Poll: SL or ZIM?
Conclusion
Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025 wraps up as a thrilling opener in the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025. From Harare’s balanced pitch to clear weather, SL’s dominance in head-to-head, and key battles like Raza vs Theekshana, it’s set for excitement. While SL are predicted winners, ZIM’s home fight and Taylor’s return add unpredictability.
Key takeaways: Bowl first on this pitch, pick all-rounders in fantasy, and watch Mendis shine. For more niche cricket news, subscribe to IPL Star. Watch live, build your Dream11, and join the discussion below. Who wins? Comment now!
Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 2025: Ultimate Preview
FAQs on Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025
1. What is the Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025 match date and time?
The Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025 is scheduled for August 29, 2025, at 9:30 AM local time (1:00 PM IST) at Harare Sports Club. The match begins with the toss at 12:30 PM IST, promising a thrilling day of cricket.
2. Where can I watch the ZIM vs SL match preview live stream in India?
You can watch the Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025 live on the FanCode app and website in India. No TV telecast is available, so grab a FanCode subscription to catch every moment of this exciting clash!
3. What is the Harare ODI pitch report for Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025?
The Harare ODI pitch report suggests a balanced surface, aiding seamers early with swing due to moisture, while spinners grip later. The average first innings score is 229, with teams bowling first winning 106 of 203 ODIs. Expect 270-290 if batting first.
4. Who are the key players to watch in ZIM vs SL 1st ODI 2025?
Key players for ZIM vs SL include Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza (all-rounder), Brendan Taylor (returning batter), and Blessing Muzarabani (pacer). For Sri Lanka, watch Kusal Mendis (477 runs in 9 ODIs), Charith Asalanka, and Maheesh Theekshana. These stars could shape the game.
5. What is the ZIM vs SL head-to-head record for ODIs?
In the ZIM vs SL head-to-head, Sri Lanka lead with 49 wins to Zimbabwe’s 12 in 64 ODIs, with 3 no-results. At Harare, Sri Lanka have won 14 of 17 matches. Their last encounter in 2024 saw Sri Lanka win by 8 wickets.
6. What is the weather forecast for Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025?
The Harare weather forecast for August 29, 2025, predicts sunny skies with temperatures of 25-30°C, 0% rain chance, and winds at 4-13 km/h. Perfect conditions for a full 50-over match with no interruptions.
7. What is the ZIM vs SL Dream11 prediction for the 1st ODI?
For ZIM vs SL Dream11 prediction, top picks include Kusal Mendis (captain), Sikandar Raza (vice-captain), Pathum Nissanka, and Maheesh Theekshana. Prioritize all-rounders and seamers if bowling first. Build your team now for maximum points!
8. What is the toss prediction for Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025?
The toss prediction favors bowling first due to early seam movement on the Harare pitch. Historical data shows teams bowling first win more often at this venue, so expect the toss winner to field.
9. What is today’s cricket match prediction for ZIM vs SL 1st ODI?
Today’s cricket match prediction gives Sri Lanka a 70% chance to win Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025, likely by 4-6 wickets or 30-50 runs, due to their superior form and head-to-head dominance. Zimbabwe could surprise at home.
10. Why is the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025 significant?
The Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025, including the Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2025, is crucial for Zimbabwe’s 2027 World Cup preparations and Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup buildup. It’s a chance for both teams to fine-tune strategies in a competitive series.
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