Sri Lanka narrowly defeated Zimbabwe by seven runs in a thrilling ODI opener at Harare Sports Club on Friday. The match, which saw a dramatic finish, was decided by Dilshan Madushanka’s hat-trick in the final over, securing Sri Lanka’s 299-run target defense.
Zimbabwe required 10 runs off the last over, with Sikandar Raza (92*) and Tony Munyonga (42*) at the crease. Madushanka, despite conceding 60 runs in his earlier overs, was entrusted with the final over. The left-arm pacer responded with a hat-trick off the first three deliveries, limiting Zimbabwe to 291/8 and sealing Sri Lanka’s victory.
Raza’s 92 off 87 balls was the highlight for Zimbabwe, supported by Ben Curran (70) and stand-in captain Sean Williams (57). Madushanka finished with impressive bowling figures of 4/62, while Asitha Fernando took 3/50. Kamindu Mendis contributed with one wicket as well.
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted a challenging total of 298/6 in their 50 overs. Pathum Nissanka (76), Janith Liyanage (70*), and Kamindu Mendis (57) led the charge, with Kusal Mendis (38) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (35) adding valuable contributions.
Zimbabwe’s bowlers struggled to contain Sri Lanka’s middle order. Richard Ngarava claimed two wickets, while Blessing Muzarabani, Trevor Gwandu, Raza, and Williams combined for four wickets. With the win, Sri Lanka took a 1-0 series lead, with the second ODI set for Sunday at the same venue.