Pathum Nissanka Sets New T20I Record for Sri Lanka in Victory Over Zimbabwe

Nissanka Achieves Milestone

Pathum Nissanka has eclipsed Kusal Perera to become Sri Lanka's leading run-scorer in T20 internationals. His remarkable performance helped secure a decisive victory against Zimbabwe in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, keeping Sri Lanka's hopes alive in the tri-series.

Outstanding Performance

Nissanka delivered an explosive innings, scoring 98 runs off just 58 balls, leading Sri Lanka to a commanding 147-run win over Zimbabwe in only 16.2 overs, with nine wickets remaining.

Record-Breaking Stats

With this innings, Nissanka has accumulated a total of 2,326 runs in 77 T20I matches, boasting an average of 32.30 and a strike rate of 126.89, including 18 fifties and one century. He surpassed Perera, who has 2,305 runs from 91 T20I matches.

Significant Win for Sri Lanka

This victory marked the end of a five-match losing streak for Sri Lanka in T20Is and was their first win in the ongoing tri-series. The triumph sets the stage for an exciting showdown against Pakistan on Thursday, where a win will secure their place in the final.

Match Summary

In the match, Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to bat first. They managed to score 146 runs for the loss of five wickets, with Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga each taking two wickets, while Dasun Shanaka contributed with one. Sikandar Raza and Ryan Burl both scored 37 runs, and Brian Bennett added 34 runs.

In response, Sri Lanka raced to 60 runs during the power-play. Kamil Mishara, the opening batter, was dismissed for 12 runs off 15 balls. Nissanka and Kusal Mendis (25 not out off 25 balls) formed an unbroken partnership of 89 runs, sealing the match with 22 balls to spare.

Match Scores

Brief scores: Zimbabwe 146/5 (Ryan Burl 37*, Sikandar Raza 37; Wanindu Hasaranga 2/23) | Sri Lanka 148/1 (Pathum Nissanka 98*, Kusal Mendis 25; Brad Evans 1/36).