The fourth One Day International between hosts Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka in the tri-series has been called off due to inclement weather and a wet outfield. Both teams get two points each for the no result.
Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bat in overcast conditions at Bulawayo with the hosts seeking their first win in the tournament while Sri Lanka looked to get back on track following a batting collapse against West Indies.
Zimbabwe lost opener Chamu Chibhabha in as early as the 5thover as the right hander was caught plumb Leg Before Wicket (LBW) to an in-swinger by the experienced Nuwan Kulasekara.
Sri Lankan batting falters as West Indies record comprehensive win
Number three and in-form batsman Craig Ervine joined opener Brian Chari as the duo put up some resistance and took the hosts to 40 for the loss of 1 wicket at the end of 10 overs.
The resistance lasted just a single ball into the 10th over as Brian Chari was run out following a chaotic mix-up.
Sikandar Raza joined Craig Ervine at the crease as the batsmen took Zimbabwe to the 50 run mark at the end of the 13th over.
13.3 overs in to the Zimbabwe innings the heavens opened up as the game was halted and with the heavy rains, the outfield did not absorb water as puddles formed at the north-eastern side of the ground. As a result of the wet outfield the game was forced to be called off.
With this wash out, Zimbabwe still remain in contention for the final but, will have to win by a huge margin against West Indies in their last game and hope Sri Lanka loses their game to the West Indies. Else, it will be a pretty straightforward thing – West Indies and Sri Lanka, who are tied on points currently, will qualify. The next encounter is nicely poised with 3 teams having their fair share of making it to the final.
