Zimbabwe secured their spot in the Super Six stage of the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2023 with an impressive 35-run victory over West Indies on Saturday, June 24.
Chasing a target of 269 runs, West Indies fell short as they were bowled out for just 233 runs, resulting in a heartbreaking defeat for both the fans and players.
During Zimbabwe’s innings at Harare Sports Club, West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph stood out with two wickets. However, his dismissal off a Tendai Chatara delivery, caught by Sikandar Raza, proved pivotal as West Indies needed only 36 runs to win with Joseph at the crease.
Following their Super Six qualification, Zimbabwe players and home fans began celebrating. Notably, the veteran duo of Raza and Sean Williams displayed exceptional sportsmanship by consoling Joseph, who was visibly devastated after his dismissal.
Here the video:
Nice gesture from Raza and Williams 🎥: ICC pic.twitter.com/ymOlTNlyxL
— IPL (@WatchIPLvideos) June 25, 2023
Earlier in the match, West Indies won the toss and elected to bowl. Joseph and Keemo Paul justified their decision, with Paul taking three wickets as Zimbabwe posted a modest total of 268 runs.
In-for Raza top-scored for Zimbabwe with a brisk 68 off 58 deliveries, supported by Ryan Burl’s composed 50 off 57 balls. West Indies opener Kyle Mayers provided a promising start with a fifty, but Zimbabwe’s bowlers took timely wickets to bowl out West Indies for 233 runs.
Tendai Chatara was particularly impressive, claiming three wickets, while Raza, Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani contributed with two wickets each in a collective bowling effort by Zimbabwe.
In their last group-stage fixture, West Indies will take on the Netherlands who have also registered two wins in three games.
