Breaking: Pakistan Sri Lanka Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series 2025 Confirmed – Full Schedule Inside!

Introduction

The month of November 2025 promises non-stop cricket action as Pakistan gears up to host a thrilling T20I Tri-Series featuring Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. The series, scheduled between November 17 and 29, will serve as a key build-up event ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.

Organized by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), this short but intense series will take place across Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Each team will face the others twice in a double round-robin format, with the top two teams qualifying for the grand final.

This tri-series isn’t just about competition — it’s also a crucial testing ground for team combinations, rising talents, and tactical strategies in the lead-up to global tournaments. Let’s take an in-depth look at the schedule, venues, squads, and what fans can expect from this much-anticipated event.

1. Tournament Overview

The Pakistan–Sri Lanka–Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series 2025 is part of Pakistan’s packed home season. It comes right after the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka ODI series, giving both Asian giants continuity before shifting to T20 mode.

The inclusion of Zimbabwe, following Afghanistan’s withdrawal due to scheduling conflicts, adds a unique twist. For Zimbabwe, this represents an invaluable opportunity to gain experience against two high-quality Asian sides.

Tournament Details:

• Series Name: Pakistan T20I Tri-Series 2025

• Dates: November 17–29, 2025

• Teams: Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe

• Host Nation: Pakistan

• Venues: Rawalpindi & Lahore

• Format: Double Round-Robin + Final

Every game will count — with each team playing four league matches and the top two proceeding to the final. This setup ensures competitive balance and plenty of cricketing drama.

2. Full Match Schedule

Here’s the official Pakistan T20I Tri-Series 2025 schedule:

(All matches are expected to start in the evening local time to attract maximum crowds and viewership.)

This schedule ensures that every team gets to experience both Rawalpindi and Lahore conditions — useful for adapting to different pitch types and dew factors during the night games.

3. Venues Breakdown

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

Rawalpindi, known for its fast-paced wickets and enthusiastic crowds, will host the first half of the series. Traditionally, it’s a batting-friendly venue with a flat surface and even bounce. Seamers get some early movement under lights, while batters enjoy full value for their shots.

• Pitch Nature: Balanced but leans towards batters.

• Capacity: Around 18,000 spectators.

• Weather: Cool evenings, minimal dew, making it great for bowlers early on.

Fans can expect high-scoring thrillers here — with power hitters and pacers equally in the game.

Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore

The iconic Gaddafi Stadium — Pakistan’s cricketing fortress — will host the final leg, including the tournament final. Lahore’s surface typically offers something for everyone: seam early, spin in the middle overs, and dew later.

• Pitch Nature: True bounce, favoring stroke play.

• Capacity: Approximately 27,000.

• Weather: Cooler nights; dew expected in late matches.

The Lahore crowd is always electric — expect sold-out stands and a grand atmosphere, especially for Pakistan’s matches.

4. Tournament Format Explained

This tri-series follows a double round-robin format, ensuring each team plays every other side twice. The top two teams based on points will meet in the final.

Points System:

• Win: 2 points

• Tie/No Result: 1 point

• Loss: 0 points

If teams end level on points, net run rate (NRR) will decide the finalists.
This format ensures every match is meaningful, encouraging teams to play aggressively while managing run rates.

5. Squads & Key Players to Watch

Pakistan Squad (Expected)

Pakistan’s T20 unit blends youth and experience. With the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, management will look to test bench strength. Expect Babar Azam to lead the side, with Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, and Haris Rauf forming the core.

Probable Squad:

Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abbas Afridi, Usama Mir, Salman Ali Agha, Aamer Jamal, and Azam Khan.

Players to Watch:

• Babar Azam: Pakistan’s run machine in home conditions.

• Haris Rauf: Expected to be lethal under lights in Rawalpindi.

• Saim Ayub: Young left-hander in focus as Pakistan eyes long-term opening options.

Sri Lanka Squad (Expected)

Sri Lanka continues its transition phase under new leadership, balancing veterans with emerging talent. The tri-series provides a platform to fine-tune combinations for global tournaments.

Probable Squad:

Kusal Mendis (c), Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dasun Shanaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka, Kasun Rajitha, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamika Karunaratne, Dushmantha Chameera.

Players to Watch:

• Wanindu Hasaranga: Sri Lanka’s spin trump card and a dependable finisher.

• Pathum Nissanka: Key at the top with his consistency.

• Matheesha Pathirana: Raw pace and toe-crushing yorkers make him dangerous.

Zimbabwe Squad (Expected)

Zimbabwe’s inclusion has sparked excitement. The series gives their players exposure against higher-ranked teams. Expect skipper Craig Ervine to lead, backed by power-hitter Sikandar Raza, the face of Zimbabwe cricket.

Probable Squad:

Craig Ervine (c), Sikandar Raza, Sean Williams, Wesley Madhevere, Ryan Burl, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava, Luke Jongwe, Milton Shumba, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande (wk), and Brad Evans.

Players to Watch:

• Sikandar Raza: A match-winner in all formats — Pakistan conditions suit his spin and batting style.

• Blessing Muzarabani: Tall pacer who can extract bounce on subcontinental pitches.

• Ryan Burl: Zimbabwe’s finisher, known for fearless stroke play.

6. Tactical Preview: How the Teams Stack Up

Pakistan: Home Advantage and Power Play Focus

Playing at home gives Pakistan an immediate edge. Their focus will be on improving powerplay aggression and death-over control. Expect experimentation with batting order — Saim Ayub or Iftikhar Ahmed might be promoted to add flexibility.
Bowling depth remains Pakistan’s strength, with Shaheen and Rauf leading pace, and Shadab–Nawaz covering spin.

Sri Lanka: Looking for Stability and Consistency

Sri Lanka’s goal will be to find batting stability in the top four. They’ve shown glimpses of brilliance but struggled with collapses. If Nissanka and Mendis can anchor, Hasaranga and Shanaka can launch in the end overs. Their spin combination (Hasaranga–Theekshana) could thrive on Pakistan pitches.

Zimbabwe: The Underdogs with Firepower

Zimbabwe enters as underdogs, but that makes them dangerous. Raza’s all-round ability, combined with Burl’s hitting and Muzarabani’s pace, could create surprises. They’ll need to manage pressure moments and avoid collapses against quality pace attacks.

7. Series Talking Points

1. T20 World Cup 2026 Preparation:
   Every team will treat this as a preparatory tournament for the mega event next year.

2. Subcontinental Rivalries:
   Pakistan and Sri Lanka have a long cricketing rivalry — their encounters are always intense.

3. Emerging Talent Showcase:
   Youngsters like Saim Ayub (PAK), Pathirana (SL), and Madhevere (ZIM) will be under the spotlight.

4. Spin vs Pace Battles:
   With Rawalpindi assisting seam and Lahore favoring spin, we’ll see contrasting tactics across venues.

5. Crowd & Atmosphere:
   Pakistan fans are known for their passion. Expect packed stadiums and electrifying energy.

8. Format Advantage: Why This Tri-Series Matters

Tri-series tournaments were once a staple in cricket’s past — and their return adds flavor to the modern calendar. The compressed format means every game is critical; there are no easy fixtures or dead rubbers.

It also challenges teams to adapt quickly. Unlike bilateral series, the mix of three opponents demands fresh tactics every match. For Pakistan, it’s also an opportunity to strengthen their reputation as strong hosts ahead of the ICC tournaments scheduled in 2026.

9. Predictions & Expectations

Favorites:

Pakistan, playing at home, enter as favorites due to their balance and familiarity with conditions. Their recent form in T20Is has been impressive, especially at home where their bowlers excel under lights.

Dark Horse:

Sri Lanka can never be counted out. Their spinners could be decisive if pitches slow down in Lahore.

Surprise Package:

Zimbabwe may pull off an upset. If Raza and Burl fire, they can test both Asian sides — particularly under dew when chasing targets.

10. Broadcasters & Fan Engagement

The PCB will partner with local broadcasters like PTV Sports and Ten Sports, with matches also expected to stream globally on Tapmad and Tamasha apps.

Fans attending live matches can expect interactive fan zones, merchandise stalls, and cultural performances, especially in Lahore’s final.

Tickets are expected to go on sale via pcb.com.pk and affiliated outlets two weeks prior to the first game.

11. Expected Outcomes and Significance

The 2025 Tri-Series is more than just a trophy chase. It’s a testing ground for:

• Pakistan’s bench strength.

• Sri Lanka’s consistency under pressure.

• Zimbabwe’s growth against stronger sides.

It also strengthens regional cricket ties, with Pakistan continuing its successful run as a full-time international host after years of neutral-venue cricket.

Conclusion

The Pakistan–Sri Lanka–Zimbabwe T20I Tri-Series 2025 is set to deliver 13 days of thrilling cricket, passionate crowds, and strategic experimentation.
For Pakistan, it’s about asserting dominance at home and preparing for 2026.
For Sri Lanka, it’s a test of form and flexibility.
For Zimbabwe, it’s a learning curve and a shot at creating history.

No matter the outcome, the series promises fast-paced action, fresh narratives, and unforgettable cricketing moments — a perfect appetizer before the global tournaments that follow.

Written By The Cricket Show

Stay tuned with The Cricket Show – Latest Cricket Updates. for all updates on the Pakistan T20I Tri-Series 2025, including match previews, live coverage, player interviews, and post-match analysis.

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