HARARE: Pathum Nissanka’s brilliant unbeaten century guided Sri Lanka to a convincing nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, securing their place in this year’s Cricket World Cup in India on Sunday.
Sri Lanka’s dominant performance began with their bowlers skittling out Zimbabwe for a modest total of 165 runs in just 33 overs. Man of the match Maheesh Theekshana shone with his impressive figures of 4-25.
Chasing the target, Sri Lanka’s opener Pathum Nissanka played a sublime innings, ensuring Zimbabwe had no chance of a comeback. His unbeaten 101 propelled Sri Lanka to a comfortable victory, reaching 169 for one in their Super Six stage match.
With this win, Sri Lanka secured their spot in the Cricket World Cup, while Zimbabwe still has a chance to qualify if they manage to defeat Scotland in their upcoming match on Tuesday.
Uphill Battle for Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe faced an uphill battle from the beginning after being put into bat by Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka. They were left reeling at 30-3 due to an exceptional opening spell by Dilshan Madushanka.
The hosts had prided themselves on their strong starts in previous matches, but Madushanka’s fiery bowling put them on the backfoot, dismissing Joylord Gumbie and Wessley Madhevere early on.
Madushanka then claimed the vital wicket of Craig Ervine for just 14, as the experienced batsman edged the ball to wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis.
Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza provided some stability with a partnership of 68 runs. However, Raza’s dismissal for 31 off Shanaka’s bowling halted their progress, leaving Zimbabwe at 98-4.
Despite a brief recovery, led by Williams’ well-crafted half-century, Sri Lankan captain Shanaka introduced Theekshana into the attack for his second spell. With just his fifth ball, Theekshana bowled Williams for 56, swinging the momentum in Sri Lanka’s favor.
Theekshana continued to make an impact, dismissing Ryan Burl for 16, as Zimbabwe’s middle order crumbled. The hosts further faltered when Theekshana trapped Luke Jongwe lbw for 10, reducing them to 144-7.
Zimbabwe’s tail failed to wag, and the unpredictable Matheesha Pathirana took two wickets in one over to seal their downfall.
