Batting first, Sri Lanka set a formidable total of 298 for 6 in their allotted 50 overs, powered by half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka (76), Kamindu Mendis (57), and an unbeaten 70 from Janith Liyanage. Zimbabwe’s bowling attack was led by Richard Ngarava, who claimed 2 wickets for just 34 runs.
In reply, Zimbabwe fought hard but finished on 291 for 8 in their 50 overs, falling narrowly short despite a spirited batting display. The visitors’ disciplined bowling and tight fielding sealed the win, giving Sri Lanka a 1–0 lead in the two-match series and setting up the second ODI as a potential series decider.
