Zimbabwe completed the group stage of the T20 World Cup unbeaten after defeating Sri Lanka by six wickets on Thursday, with Brian Bennett finishing a chase set up by captain Sikandar Raza.
Zimbabwe topped Group B, which also featured former champions Sri Lanka and Australia. Zimbabwe will open their Super Eights campaign against the West Indies in Mumbai on Monday, while Sri Lanka are set to host England in Pallekele on Saturday.
Sri Lanka chose to bat and posted 178 for 7, but Zimbabwe chased down the target with three balls remaining, finishing on 182 for 4. Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 63 off 48 balls and remains not out throughout the tournament after earlier scores against Oman and Australia.
Pathum Nissanka once again led Sri Lanka’s batting with 62 off 41 balls, following his unbeaten century against Australia. Pavan Rathnayake added 44 from 25 deliveries to lift the total. Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka said his team lacked confidence in the field and hoped for a stronger showing next time.
Raza said few expected Zimbabwe to reach the Super Eights and that the team is enjoying its underdog status. He added that winning two of their next three games could open up further possibilities.
West Indies also finished the group stage unbeaten after defeating Italy by 42 runs at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Captain Shai Hope led the way with 75 off 46 balls, while Italy were dismissed for 123 despite Ben Manenti’s 26. Shamar Joseph starred with 4 for 30 and also took four catches as West Indies defended 165.
Italy ended their first World Cup campaign with praise after notable performances, including a win over Nepal and a narrow loss to England. Captain Harry Manenti said more matches and funding would help associate nations become more competitive.
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In Chennai, Afghanistan beat Canada by 82 runs in a match between two teams already out of contention. Ibrahim Zadran fell just short of a maiden men’s T20 World Cup century, scoring an unbeaten 95 from 56 balls as Afghanistan reached 200 for 4.
Canada were restricted to 118 for 8, with Mohammad Nabi claiming a career-best 4 for 7. Zadran said he was not disappointed to miss the hundred and was focused on contributing to the team’s total.