Pathum Nissanka century books Sri Lanka’s 2023 ODI World Cup spot | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Sri Lanka secured their spot in this year’s Cricket World Cup in India with an impressive performance led by Pathum Nissanka, who scored an unbeaten 101. The 1996 World Cup champions defeated hosts Zimbabwe by nine wickets on Sunday.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers were outstanding, bowling out Zimbabwe for a modest 165 in just 33 overs. Man of the match Maheesh Theekshana shined with his bowling figures of 4-25.
Zimbabwe had a difficult start after being asked to bat first by Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka. Dilshan Madushanka’s brilliant opening spell left the hosts struggling at 30-3. Madushanka dismissed Joylord Gumbie and Wessley Madhevere early on, and then took the crucial wicket of Craig Ervine.

Sean Williams and Sikandar Raza tried to stabilize Zimbabwe’s innings with a partnership of 68 runs. However, Raza was caught by Madushanka off Shanaka’s bowling when he was on 31, and Zimbabwe found themselves at 98-4.
Williams reached his half-century, but Shanaka’s smart bowling change brought Theekshana back into the attack. With just his fifth ball, Theekshana bowled Williams for 56, turning the game in Sri Lanka’s favor. Theekshana struck again, dismissing Burl for 16, and further reduced Zimbabwe to 144-7 by trapping Luke Jongwe lbw for 10.

The Zimbabwean tail struggled, and Matheesha Pathirana took two of the remaining three wickets in a single over, adding to the hosts’ woes. Sri Lanka comfortably chased down the target, reaching 169-1 with Nissanka’s unbeaten century guiding them to victory.
Despite the loss, Zimbabwe still has a chance to qualify if they defeat Scotland in their upcoming match on Tuesday.

(With inputs from AFP)