Madushanka’s Hat-Trick Wins Thriller for Sri Lanka Against Zimbabwe in 1st ODI.

  • August 29, 2025

Cricket enthusiasts gathering at the Harare Sports Club witnessed an enthralling commencement to the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025. The initial One Day International developed into a gripping affair – substantial partnerships, unexpected collapses, a valiant effort from Sikandar Raza, and ultimately a hat-trick in the final over that decided the match. In the end, Sri Lanka maintained composure to secure a 7-run triumph, leaving Zimbabwe crestfallen after nearly achieving victory.

Sri Lanka build a strong total courtesy of Pathum Nissanka’s batting brillance

Upon being asked to bat first, Sri Lanka encountered a shaky opening, with Nishan Madushka getting dismissed for a duck. But Pathum Nissanka (76 scored off 92 deliveries) held his ground at one end, fulfilling the role of the cornerstone. He displayed composure, remained focused, and ensured Sri Lanka possessed a base for advancement. Around him, brief contributions from Kusal Mendis (38) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (35) maintained the score progression.

The explosive hitting occurred in the concluding 15 overs. Janith Liyanage unleashed 70 runs from merely 47 balls, exhibiting impressive power-hitting with six boundaries and three maximums. He received excellent support from Kamindu Mendis, who hammered 57 runs off 36 deliveries. Their collaboration transformed what appeared to be a modest total into a formidable 298/6. Representing Zimbabwe, Richard Ngarava stood out as the most effective bowler with his economical spell, securing 2 wickets for 34 runs.

Zimbabwe’s fightback led by Sikandar Raza

Zimbabwe’s pursuit of the target commenced poorly. Brian Bennett and Brendan Taylor departed within the initial over, leaving the home side stunned at 0/2. However, the experienced Ben Curran (70 runs off 90 balls) and Sean Williams (57 runs off 54 balls) stabilized the innings. Their 118-run partnership reignited the crowd’s enthusiasm and instilled confidence in Zimbabwe.

Williams was dismissed while attempting a sweep shot, and suddenly Sri Lanka detected an opportunity for a comeback as wickets fell in succession. Just as the visiting team believed they had gained control, Sikandar Raza entered and altered the course of the game. The Zimbabwean star performed at his peak, accumulating 92 runs off 87 deliveries, securing singles, executing well-timed boundaries, and steering his team closer to the required score. With Tony Munyonga (43 runs off 52 balls) providing exceptional assistance, the duo contributed 128 runs and positioned Zimbabwe on the verge of triumph.

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Dilshan Madushanka’s magical last over seals the deal for Islanders

With 10 runs required in the final over and Raza still present at the batting crease, Zimbabwe appeared to be in a favorable position. The Harare crowd was buzzing with anticipation, expecting their hero to conclude the match successfully. However, then arrived Dilshan Madushanka’s pivotal moment.

Despite being costly earlier, the left-arm fast bowler delivered an exceptional over under immense pressure. He dismissed Munyonga on the first ball, then claimed Brad Evans on the subsequent delivery, and ultimately delivered the decisive blow — trapping Raza in the deep to complete a hat-trick in the final over. From a commanding position, Zimbabwe faltered, concluding at 291/8, falling short by a mere 7 runs. Madushanka concluded with figures of 4/62 and was rightfully recognized as the Player of the Match.

Here’s how fans reacted:

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