Zim look up to the Test after thrilling in one-dayers
THEY arrived in Sri Lanka ranked 11th in the world, having just been beaten by Scotland and chasing their first away series win since 2009. They will leave as history makers, having stunned Sri Lanka to win their ODI series 3-2.
But Zimbabwe aren’t done yet. The cricketing minnows, who had previously lost their last eight ODIs against the Lions, are now chasing another fairytale as they hope to beat Sri Lanka in a Test match, starting today in Columbo.
Graeme Cremer’s men can take great pride – and massive confidence – from the way in which they swept Sri Lanka aside in the fifth ODI to seal their memorable victory.
The tourists had to be patient on a slow, turning deck in Hambantota on Monday, and at one point were in danger of defeat when a surge of Sri Lankan bowling left them 175-7.
However, Sikandar Raza’s nerveless 27 not out got Zimbabwe comfortably over the line, and he rightfully stole the headlines, but the visitors also bowled with venom and fielded smartly on their way to victory – it was a brilliant team effort that outsmarted their more esteemed opposition.
“It was lovely to see everyone making useful contributions.We always want to win, but sometimes we didn’t believe ourselves that we can win,” said Raza.
So many in the Zimbabwe side can take credit for their series triumph. If they didn’t believe they could win, they never showed it.
Since their record chase in the first ODI, almost every batsman has produced.With the ball, Cremer, Malcolm Waller and Sean Williams have spun the ball expertly. They even outfielded Sri Lanka, too.
“This series should give us belief, and rightly so.” added Raza.
“No one has words to explain how we feel. It is just an amazing feeling.
“To beat Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka is something not many teams have been able to do. The next target is to play a good Test match against them as well.”
Whatever happens in Columbo, this Zimbabwe side have had one of the finest moments in their sporting history. But why stop there?