Zimbabwe failed to capitalize on the start
Opting to bat first, Zimbabwe faced an early setback as Tinashe Kamunhukamwe departed for a golden duck in the opening over. Despite the loss, Joylord Gumbie and Craig Ervine steadied the ship, forming a solid partnership. However, Maheesh Theekshana‘s delivery clean-bowled Gumbie for 30, disrupting their 50+ run collaboration. Ervine stood tall and combined forces with Milton Shumba, adding another 50+ runs for the third wicket. But then, Theekshana struck again, dismissing Shumba for 26, followed by Sikandar Raza, who fell for just one run.
Ervine persevered, reaching his half-century and fostering three consecutive 50-run partnerships, the last with Ryan Burl. Dushmantha Chameera then dismissed Ervine (82) and Burl (31) in quick succession. The guests eventually collapsed after Burl’s wicket, managing only 209 runs in 44.4 overs. Theekshana starred with four wickets, Chameera and Jeffrey Vandersay took two each and Dilshan Madushanka claimed one, orchestrating Zimbabwe’s downfall.
Sri Lanka’s thrilling chase
In the chase, Sri Lanka faced early setbacks, with Avishka Fernando and Sadeera Samarawickrama departing cheaply for just four runs. However, Kusal Mendis, aided by the resilient Janith Liyanage, steadied the ship with a cautious 35-run partnership. A rain interruption disrupted play, and Mendis fell to Richard Ngarava upon resumption. Undeterred, Liyanage held firm, reaching a valiant half-century off 85 balls.
Despite losing partners, including Dasun Shanaka, Liyanage maintained composure. Theekshana provided support with 18 runs. As the rain returned with the team needing 37 runs, Liyanage succumbed to pressure, departing for a commendable 95 off 127 balls. Chameera and Jeffrey Vandersay then led The Islanders to victory with a 39-run partnership. Ngarava impressed for Zimbabwe, taking five wickets for just 31 runs.
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Here’s how Twitter reacted:
What a Win. @OfficialSLC won by 2 Wickets and lead ODI Series 1-0.
Fantastic Partnership for 9th Wicket@Vandersay ? @dushmantha05 39*(40).
Wonderful Knock Janith Linayage 95. What a Spell @maheesht61 4/31. Well bowled @dushmantha05 2/44 and @Vandersay 2/47.#SLvZIM
— JaayShaan (VaidhyaJayaShankar) (@JaayShaan) January 8, 2024
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