Harare, August 29 –
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe 1st ODI: Sri Lanka Edge Out Zimbabwe in Harare Thriller
In a high-octane series opener at Harare Sports Club, Sri Lanka held their nerves to secure a nail-biting 7-run victory over Zimbabwe, taking a 1–0 lead in the two-match ODI series. The contest witnessed fluctuating momentum, fine partnerships, and an unforgettable final over that sealed Sri Lanka’s win.
Toss and Early Momentum
Zimbabwe skipper won the toss and opted to field first, banking on early movement from the Harare wicket. The decision initially paid off as Sri Lanka lost two early wickets, leaving them on the back foot. However, opener Pathum Nissanka’s composed 76 steadied the innings, laying a foundation for what turned into a remarkable batting recovery.
Sri Lanka’s Late Surge
The turning point came when Janith Liyanage (70) and Kamindu Mendis (57)* joined forces. Their explosive 137-run partnership off just 83 balls shifted momentum dramatically. The duo’s clean hitting ensured Sri Lanka finished strongly at 298/6 in 50 overs, setting Zimbabwe a stiff target on a ground known for tricky chases.
Zimbabwe’s Fightback
The chase began disastrously for Zimbabwe as they slumped to 0/2 in the first over. But experienced campaigner Sean Williams (62) and promising Ben Curran (74) rebuilt the innings with a gritty 118-run stand, putting the hosts back in contention. Their partnership reignited home crowd hopes, carrying Zimbabwe within touching distance of a famous win.
The Final Over Drama
With Zimbabwe needing just 10 runs off the last 5 balls, the stage seemed set for a thrilling home victory. But Sri Lanka’s left-arm quick Dilshan Madushanka turned the game on its head. Bowling with ice-cool nerves, he delivered a hat-trick in the final over, stunning the hosts and sealing victory.
Zimbabwe eventually closed at 291/8 in 50 overs, agonizingly short by 7 runs.
Match Summary
- Sri Lanka: 298/6 (50 overs)
- Pathum Nissanka 76
- Janith Liyanage 70*
- Kamindu Mendis 57
- Zimbabwe: 291/8 (50 overs)
- Ben Curran 74
- Sean Williams 62
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 7 runs
- Player of the Match: Dilshan Madushanka (4/62, including final-over hat-trick)
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka displayed depth in batting with a strong lower-middle order finish.
- Zimbabwe showed resilience, nearly pulling off one of their finest chases in recent memory.
- Madushanka’s final over will go down as one of the most dramatic ODI finishes of the year.
Looking Ahead
Sri Lanka now lead the series 1–0 and carry confidence into the second ODI. For Zimbabwe, the heartbreak of this narrow loss could serve as motivation to bounce back. With both teams showing fight, the next clash promises to deliver another dose of thrilling cricket.
Source Credits
- Match Coverage & Live Updates: ESPNcricinfo
- Additional Insights & Reports: The Times of India, Indian Express, CricTracker, CricketTimes, India Today
