Zimbabwe move closer to World Cup with a thrilling 14-run win over Oman | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: In a thrilling encounter on Thursday, Zimbabwe emerged victorious with a narrow 14-run win over Oman in the Super Six stage of the World Cup Qualifier. The victory was propelled by an exceptional century from Sean Williams, his third of the tournament.
Opting to bat first in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe posted a formidable total of 332-7 in their allotted 50 overs. In response, Oman showcased resilience and fought valiantly, but fell agonisingly short, finishing at 318-9.

With this triumph, the hosts claimed the top spot on the table, bolstering their position after carrying over two wins from the group stage against the West Indies and the Netherlands. The victory provides Zimbabwe with a strong start to the Super Six stage of the World Cup Qualifier.
“When I first saw the wicket, I thought 270 would be a very good score,” said Williams. “Thankfully everyone chipped in there and we got up to that total.”

Zimbabwe are aiming to secure qualification for the global one-day showpiece, marking their return after an eight-year absence from the tournament. After failing to qualify for the 2019 edition in England and Wales, Zimbabwe is determined to secure a spot this time around.
In the Super Six stage, the top two teams in the standings will earn direct qualification to the World Cup.
Unfortunately, Oman’s chances of reaching the main tournament are slim, as they are currently out of contention for a qualifying spot. The tournament is scheduled to take place in India from October 5 to November 19.
Despite being considered underdogs, Oman put up a fierce fight against Zimbabwe in their match, providing an enthralling and dramatic chase. Their efforts showcased their determination, even though they began the match with zero points in the Super Six stage.
Opener Kashyap Prajapati crashed 103 off 97 balls to help them stay within touching distance.

Blessing Muzarabani’s three wickets appeared to have put Zimbabwe on the brink of victory, helped by some brilliant fielding including a remarkable catch by Luke Jongwe as he juggled the ball on the boundary while repeatedly hopping over the rope.
But some late blows from the lower order left a manageable 39 needed from the final 17 balls when Fayyaz Butt was trapped lbw by Tendai Chatara.
Captain Zeeshan Maqsood hobbled back out to join Mohammad Nadeem at the crease having earlier retired injured.
Richard Ngarava’s excellent penultimate over which conceded just two runs and a bye left Oman with too much to do as Maqsood fell to Chatara from the final ball.
Nadeem ended 30 not out from 18 balls as Muzarabani finished with 3-57 from nine overs and Chatara with 3-73 from eight.

Earlier, Williams’ wonderful 142 off 103 deliveries, featuring 14 fours and three sixes, provided the backbone of Zimbabwe’s innings.
Sikandar Raza added 42 and Jongwe some late impetus with a 28-ball 43 not out.
Zimbabwe, depending on other results, could secure a place in India when they face Sri Lanka on Sunday.
Oman are next in action the following day against the Netherlands.
(With AFP inputs)