Co-hosts Sri Lanka can seal their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup with a win over Zimbabwe in their penultimate match at the Pallekele stadium in Kandy on Thursday.

The loss against Pakistan and the washed-out game against Australia has put Sri Lanka, considered by many as one of the favourites to win the showpiece event, in a tricky situation.

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The co-hosts, currently on five points from four matches, will aim to make short work of the African nation as an upset would put them under tremendous pressure in their last match against in-form New Zealand in Mumbai on March 18.

The island nation may opt for right-arm paceman Dilhara Fernando in Thursday's match, replacing either Rangana Herath or Ajantha Mendis in the process.

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Zimbabwe's biggest challenge will be to bat the first 15 overs without giving away too many wickets against an attack spearheaded by paceman Lasith Malinga.

The Elton Chigumbura-led side have defeated fellow associates Canada but lost to New Zealand and Australia.