ZIM vs SL : Tony Munyonga’s stunning reflex catch dismisses Dasun Shanaka in the 1st T20I

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The opening T20I of the Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025 lived up to expectations as fans at the Harare Sports Club witnessed an entertaining contest filled with big hits, sharp bowling, and a dramatic catch that turned heads. After Zimbabwe set a competitive target, Sri Lanka held their nerve in a tense chase to clinch a four-wicket victory with five balls remaining, taking the early lead in the three-match series.

In one of the most talked-about moments of the match, Zimbabwe produced a breathtaking catch in the deep to dismiss former Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka. It came on the final ball of the 17th over when Brad Evans delivered a slower short ball. Shanaka attempted a pull shot but failed to connect with power, sending the ball high towards deep mid-wicket.

Two Zimbabwe fielders, Tashinga Musekiwa and Tony Munyonga, converged for the catch and collided in the process. The ball slipped out of Musekiwa’s hands, only for Munyonga to react swiftly and take a low catch just inches above the turf. Though unintentional, Munyonga’s quick reflexes ensured Shanaka’s dismissal in a spectacular fashion.

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Munyonga reacts in a flash and completes a jaw-dropping catch for Zimbabwe!#ZIMvSL

— FanCode (@FanCode) September 3, 2025

Also READ: ZIM vs SL 2025: Schedule, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details | Sri Lanka tour of Zimbabwe 2025

Opting to bat first, Zimbabwe put up a competitive total of 175/7 in 20 overs. Young batter Brian Bennett was the star of the innings, crafting a well-paced 81 off 57 balls, anchoring the hosts’ batting effort. Despite his heroics, Zimbabwe couldn’t fully capitalize in the death overs, as Dushmantha Chameera struck crucial blows, finishing with 3/30 to keep the target within reach for Sri Lanka.

In reply, Sri Lanka showed composure in their chase. Pathum Nissanka gave the visitors a flying start with 55 off just 32 deliveries, setting the tone early on. The game, however, tilted in Zimbabwe’s favor briefly with regular breakthroughs, including Shanaka’s dismissal in the 17th over. But Kamindu Mendis turned the match around with a blistering unbeaten 41 off 16 balls, steering Sri Lanka home with five balls to spare. Zimbabwe’s Richard Ngarava was the standout bowler with 2/19, but it wasn’t enough to prevent a Sri Lankan win.

Also READ: Fans react as Pathum Nissanka and Kamindu Mendis power Sri Lanka to thrilling win over Zimbabwe in 1st T20I