Zimbabwe defeats Sri Lanka in final ODI to clinch historical series

The Zimbabwe Chevrons defeated Sri Lanka by 3 wickets in the final one-day international (ODI) match which was played at the M Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota to claim a first ever series win against Sri Lanka 3-2. Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to field first. The Chevrons’ attack was inspired and restricted Sri Lanka to 203/8 in 50 overs. However, this seems to have been a let off as the Sri Lankans were at one stage on 34/3. The Sri Lankans looked to be in danger of failing to complete their overs having slipped to 127/7 in the 35th over. However, they battled back to post 203 for 8. Sikandar Raza was the pick of the Zimbabwean bowlers, claiming 3 for 21, but Graeme Cremer, Sean Williams and Malcolm Waller also made breakthroughs and were disciplined in their bowling, conceding just over three an over as a unit. However, the bowlers gave Sri Lanka 28 extras.

Zimbabwe started the chase off well with Hamilton Masakadza scoring 73 runs. Solomon Mire provided valuable support with 43 runs. However, Zimbabwe almost made a mess of it after losing the wickets of Craig Ervine(2), Sean Williams(2) in quick succession.  Malcolm Waller and  PJ Moor also went out cheaply.  However, Sikandar Raza(27) was able to steady the ship with the help of captain Graeme Cremer(11). The Chevrons managed to reach the target with 71 balls remaining, with a big six from Raza.