Pretty much on expected lines, Sri Lanka defeated Zimbabwe in the opening ODI and earned a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. However, it wasn’t a cakewalk for the home team as Zimbabwe looked determined to cross the line.

Sean Williams even slammed a century for the visiting team. However, fifties from Charith Asalanka, Dinesh Chandimal, and Pathum Nissanka meant Sri Lanka chased down 297 with five wickets in hand.

Earlier in the game, Zimbabwe won the toss and opted to bat at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Openers Takudzwanashe Kaitan and Regis Chakabva went after the bowlers from the outset and gave Zimbabwe a flying start. The duo added 80 runs for the first wicket before the latter fell prey to Vandersay. While skipper Craig Erine could only manage nine, Chakabva found a potent partner in Sean Williams, and the duo steadied the ship for the visitors.

The pair added 50 runs for the third wicket Chakabva walked back for a well-made 72. While Williams continued to trouble Sri Lankan bowlers from one end, he kept losing partners from the other. However, this didn’t stop the southpaw from recording a stellar century. He scored 100 off 87 balls as Zimbabwe posted 296/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Chamika Karunaratne, with three wickets, was the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers.

With a stiff target in front, Sri Lanka needed a steady start and they got it. Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka made brilliant use of the powerplay overs and added 40 runs in no time. While number-three batter Kamindu Mendis got out for 17, Nissanka formed a potent partner in veteran Dinesh Chandimal. The duo added 66 runs for the third wicket, tightening Sri Lanka’s grip over the contest. Nissanka departed after an aggressive 71 and in came the young talent Charith Asalanka.

Chandimal joined forces with and the duo gave Zimbabwe bowlers a tough time. They added 129 runs for the fifth wicket, almost knocking the Craig Ervine-led side out of the contest. Skipper Dasun Shanaka came at a stroke of the game and did the formalities. This way the hosts crossed the line in 48.4 overs, clinching the contest by five wickets. (CricTracker)