SL vs ZIM Dream11 Prediction, T20 World Cup: Playing XI, Fantasy Winning Team & Pitch Report

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup action heats up as Sri Lanka hosts Zimbabwe in a crucial encounter at the R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. Both teams are coming off wins, but the home advantage for the Lankans could be the deciding factor. Fantasy managers should keep a close eye on in form players like Kusal Mendis and rising star Brian Bennett, who have been consistent point getters. This match promises a battle between Sri Lanka's spin wizards and Zimbabwe's spirited pace attack.

Match Details

• Match: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe
• Date: 19 Feb 2026
• Time: 15:00 IST (Local Time)
• Venue: R.Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

Live Streaming & Broadcast Details

Fans can catch the action on major sports networks. For digital viewers, the match is available on official streaming apps.

Fans can check the country wise official live streaming and TV broadcast details for this match. To know where you can watch live streaming in your country, visit this complete guide: ICC Men’s World Cup 2026 Live Streaming Channels – Country wise Guide

Weather Report

The weather in Colombo is expected to be warm and humid with temperatures hovering around 31°C. Humidity levels will be high, which might make it physically draining for the fielding side in the afternoon. There is a slight chance of evening showers, but we expect a full game. The Dew factor might come into play during the second innings, potentially aiding the chasing team.

Pitch Report & Venue Stats

The surface at R.Premadasa Stadium is traditionally a spinner's paradise. The data supports this, with Spinner Wickets (37) significantly outnumbering Pacer Wickets (29) in the last 5 matches. The Avg Runs at this venue is 164, suggesting that while runs are available, batsmen must apply themselves against the turning ball.

Fantasy Takeaway: Load your fantasy contests with quality spinners and technical batters who play spin well. Death over bowlers are also valuable here.

Team Form & Head to-Head

Sri Lanka

• Last 5 Matches: W W W L L
• Form: They are on a 3-match winning streak, showing dominance at home.
• H2H: Sri Lanka has won 5 of the recent encounters against this opposition.

Zimbabwe

• Last 5 Matches: W W L L W
• Form: A mixed bag, but they have secured 2 consecutive wins recently.
• H2H: They have managed 3 wins against the hosts historically.

Injury Updates & Player Availability

• Wanindu Hasaranga is marked as UNAVAILABLE in the squad list.
• Brendan Taylor is also UNAVAILABLE for selection.
• Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka are Fully fit and expected to lead the charge for the hosts.

Probable Playing XI

Sri Lanka

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Dushan Hemantha, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana

Zimbabwe

Brian Bennett, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza, Dion Myers, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Wellington Masakadza, Graeme Cremer, Blessing Muzarabani

Key Players to Watch

• Kusal Mendis: The wicket keeper batter is in sublime touch, scoring 168 runs in the series with a massive 118.7 Series Avg Points. He is a must have for your major leagues.
• Brian Bennett: A revelation for Zimbabwe, he has accumulated 112 runs and averages 102.0 fantasy points per match. His consistency makes him a top pick.
• Maheesh Theekshana: With 6 wickets in the series and playing at a venue that suits his mystery spin, he is a prime candidate for the Vice Captaincy role.
• Blessing Muzarabani: The pacer has been lethal, taking 7 wickets in the series. He is the strike bowler Zimbabwe relies on for early breakthroughs.
• Brad Evans: An effective all rounder who has picked up 6 wickets recently. His ability to contribute in both departments adds great value.

Fantasy Picks

Small League Safe Picks

• Kusal Mendis
• Sikandar Raza
• Pathum Nissanka

Mega League Differential Picks

• Dunith Wellalage: Selected by fewer users, his left arm spin on this track can be a game changer.
• Ryan Burl: A high risk, high reward option who can turn the game with both bat and ball.

Match Prediction / Outlook

Given the home conditions and the spin friendly nature of the R.Premadasa Stadium, Sri Lanka starts as the clear favorite. Their spinners are likely to strangle the opposition in the middle overs. However, if Zimbabwe bats first and puts up a score above 170, they have the bowling attack to defend it.

Disclaimer

This analysis is based on current stats and expert understanding. Always check the Final Playing XI and Toss updates before locking your fantasy team.