Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWE’S hopes of sealing a place in the Tri-Series final have been dented after a heavy nine wickets defeat to Sri Lanka in Lahore on Tuesday.
Zimbabwe, who secured a big win over Sri Lanka in the tri-series opener, struggled to put up a decent score after being sent in to bat.
Despite a solid stand from Brian Bennett and captain Sikandar Raza, the innings lost momentum, with Ryan Burl left fighting alone at the death to take Zimbabwe to 146 for 5.
Sri Lanka then hit back in style, chasing the target with nearly four overs to spare.
Pathum Nissanka was unstoppable, smashing an unbeaten 98 from 58 balls, leading his side to victory and keeping their hopes alive in the race to the final.
Zimbabwe will be hoping hosts Pakistan beat Sri Lanka in the last round Robin match on Thursday, as a win for the hosts will send Zimbabwe to the final.
