Sri Lanka Qualify for ICC World Cup 2023 With Convincing Win Against Zimbabwe

Harare: Sri Lanka secured their spot in the ICC World Cup 2023 after an impressive nine-wicket triumph over hosts Zimbabwe at Bulawayo’s Queens Sports Club. Theekshana’s outstanding performance with four wickets helped dismiss Zimbabwe for a mere 165 runs in 32.2 overs. Zimbabwe struggled to recover from losing early wickets, with Sean Williams scoring 56 runs and Sikandar Raza contributing 31. However, Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated, dismantling Zimbabwe’s innings.

8.2-1-25-4 🔥

Maheesh Theekshana is the @aramco #POTM for his superb spell that helped Sri Lanka end Zimbabwe's winning streak ⚡#CWC23 | #ZIMvSL pic.twitter.com/njexAQIy2r

— ICC (@ICC) July 2, 2023

Chasing Zimbabwe’s modest total, Sri Lanka’s openers, Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne, began steadily and then accelerated their scoring rate. They capitalized on loose deliveries, finding the boundary and maintaining a steady flow of runs. Nissanka showcased his aggression, reaching his 10th ODI half-century, while Karunaratne provided valuable support before being dismissed for 30 runs. By the time their partnership ended, Sri Lanka had already accumulated 103 runs.

Nissanka and Mendis then took control of the game with a commanding partnership, guiding Sri Lanka to victory. Nissanka exhibited superb form, displaying confidence and aggression throughout his innings. He remained unbeaten, achieving his well-deserved second ODI century with a boundary, while Mendis supported him with an unbeaten 25 runs.