Sri Lanka booked their spot in the ODI World Cup 2023 with a remarkable 9-wicket triumph over Zimbabwe in the Super Six encounter. The match saw an outstanding performance from the bowlers, led by Theekshana, who took four wickets for just 25 runs. Pathum Nissanka's unbeaten century then sealed the win for Sri Lanka, cementing their spot in the prestigious tournament.
The highlight of the game was Sri Lanka's superb bowling display, especially their new-ball attack against Zimbabwe's top-order batsmen. Dilshan Madushanka, playing only his second match as a replacement player, wreaked havoc with his pace and movement. He claimed early wickets, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at just 30 for 3 in the seventh over.
Despite a resilient partnership between Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza, the collapse continued as Madushanka and Maheesh Theekshana took charge. Theekshana's brilliant spell dismantled the Zimbabwean batting lineup, as he picked up crucial wickets, including that of Williams. Sri Lanka's bowlers maintained their excellent form throughout the tournament, consistently dismissing their opponents for under 200 runs.
Chasing a target of 166, Sri Lanka's opening pair of Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka provided a solid foundation with a 103-run partnership. Nissanka's elegant strokeplay was on full display as he crafted a superb century, his second in ODI cricket. His unbeaten knock of 101 runs off 102 balls ensured Sri Lanka's victory with nearly 17 overs to spare.
Sri Lanka will play their last match of tournament against West Indies. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe's fate hangs in the balance as they will take on Scotland in a crucial Super Six encounter, with the winner securing a spot in the ten-team World Cup in India.