Sri Lanka’s Dilshan Madushanka seals last-over hat-trick to beat Zimbabwe in Harare
Sri Lanka fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka produced a sensational last-over hat-trick to steer the visitors to a seven-run win over Zimbabwe in the opening ODI at Harare Sports Club. Zimbabwe needed 10 runs off the final over, but Madushanka dismissed Sikandar Raza with the first ball and had Brad Evans caught next, before sealing the win by removing Richard Ngarava with the third ball. He conceded just two runs off the remaining three deliveries as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 291 in reply to Sri Lanka’s 298-6.
Sri Lanka had posted 298-6 after being put in, with a late surge from Janith Liyanage and Kamindu Mendes. Liyanage finished unbeaten on 70 off 47 balls and Mendes on 57 off 36, as the two added 137 in 83 balls to set a daunting target for Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe had begun poorly, slipping to 31-2, before stand-in captain Sean Williams and Ben Curran rebuilt with a 118-run third-wicket partnership. Curran contributed 70, and Williams provided leadership at the top of a resilient chase. A 128-run sixth-wicket stand between Sikandar Raza and Tony Munyonga, who was 43 not out, momentarily kept Zimbabwe in contention, but Madushanka’s heroics sealed the result. The Sri Lanka quick finished with 4-62.
Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine was ruled out of the series with a calf tear, with Williams stepping up to lead the side. The two-match ODI series continues on Sunday, followed by three Twenty20 internationals.
What it means: Sri Lanka’s pace attack showed its venom in the death overs, with Madushanka delivering under pressure to clinch a dramatic win away from home. Zimbabwe will take heart from their fightback in the middle order, especially Williams’ leadership and Munyonga’s composed batting, but will need to tighten up their earlier, quick dismissals if they are to bounce back in the remaining ODIs. This result also underscored the depth in Sri Lanka’s squad as they look to build momentum across formats. Summary: a pulsating ODIs debut for the series with high-pressure moments, a standout performance from Madushanka, and a tight finish that keeps the slate clean for the remainder of the tour. Positive note: Sri Lanka’s win underlines their capability to win tight games in diverse conditions, a buoyant sign for their limited-overs prospects.
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