Entry into Super Eights not by luck; Zimbabwe defeat Sri Lanka to become group champions

COLOMBO: Zimbabwe continue their impressive form in the T20 World Cup. The African team has advanced to the Super Eights as group champions after defeating the powerful Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka was riding on the strength of their win over Australia, but Zimbabwe chased down the target of 179 with two balls and six wickets to spare. Opener Brian Bennett's brilliant half-century was the foundation of Zimbabwe's victory.

Chasing the target, Zimbabwe got off to a good start with their openers. Brian Bennett remained unbeaten on 63 off 48 balls while another opener, Tadiwanashe Marumani, scored 34(26). The partnership for the first wicket fell after adding 69 runs in 8.3 overs. Ryan Burl, who came in third, scored 23(12) runs and captain Sikandar Raza 45(26). Tashinga Musekiwa was dismissed for 1(2) runs while Tony Munyonga remained unbeaten on 8*(3). Dushan Hemantha took two wickets for Sri Lanka, while Dasun Shanaka and Dunith Wellalage took one wicket each.

Batting first, Sri Lanka scored 178 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. Pathum Nissanka, who scored a century in the last match, continued his brilliant form with a half-century of 62 (41). Pavan Rathnayake 44 (25) and Kusal Perera 22 (14) also put up a good performance for Sri Lanka with the bat. Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans and Graeme Cremer took two wickets each while Ryan Burl, who bowled brilliantly for Zimbabwe, got one wicket.