In a rain-interrupted battle at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium (RPICS) 11th of January, Sri Lanka emerged victorious in the third and final One Day International (ODI) against Zimbabwe, securing a comprehensive 2-0 series win.
The contest was marked by a series of weather-related disruptions, with Zimbabwe winning the toss and choosing to bat first. However, after just 33 minutes of play, heavy rain descended upon the RPICS, resulting in a delay that lasted 132 minutes. Subsequently, the game was revised to a 43-over match.
To add to the challenges, rain struck again at 5.36 pm, causing an additional 146-minute delay. The officials revised the match to a 27-over game, setting the stage for a condensed and thrilling encounter.
Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga, making his first international appearance in six months following surgery, played a pivotal role with the ball. In his initial two overs after the first rain break, Hasaranga showcased his prowess by claiming three wickets, including the dismissal of Zimbabwe’s captain, Craig Ervine, who departed without scoring (golden duck).
Following the second rain interruption, Hasaranga continued to wreak havoc on the Zimbabwean batting lineup. The leg-spinner went on to record exceptional figures of 7 for 19, marking the best performance of his ODI career. His outstanding spell is now the fifth-best bowling figures in ODI cricket.
Zimbabwe struggled to cope with Hasaranga’s spin, managing to post a mere 96 runs. Joylord Gumbie emerged as the top scorer for the visitors in the rain-affected encounter.
Sri Lanka, in their pursuit of the revised target, swiftly chased it down within just 16.4 overs. Avishka Fernando endured a challenging day, being dismissed for a duck. His recent struggles continued as he fell to Richard Ngarava for the third time in the series.
Kusal Mendis, on the other hand, played a crucial role in the successful chase, scoring his 27th international fifty. His composed innings underlined his experience and skill, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s series-clinching victory.
This win not only secured the series for Sri Lanka but also showcased the team’s resilience in adverse conditions. The outstanding performances of Hasaranga and Mendis are certain to boost Sri Lanka’s confidence as they look forward to future cricketing challenges.