Zimbabwe move closer to World Cup with Oman win

AFP | Harare

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Zimbabwe claimed a tense 14- run win over Oman yesterday to start the Super Six stage of the World Cup Qualifier on a high, after Sean Williams’ third hundred of the event.

The African side racked up 332-7 from their 50 overs batting first in Bulawayo before a brave chase from Oman came up just short on 318-9. The hosts moved top of the table after adding to the two wins over the West Indies and the Netherlands they carried over from the group stage.

“When I first saw the wicket, I thought 270 would be a very good score,” said Williams. “Thankfully everyone chipped in there and we got up to that total.” Zimbabwe are bidding to qualify for the global one-day showpiece following an eight-year absence after missing out on the 2019 edition in England and Wales.

The top two sides in the Super Six standings will secure places at the World Cup. Oman are all but out of contention in the race to reach the main tournament to be held in India from October 5 until November 19.

The underdogs, who started the match on zero points in the Super Six, pushed Zimbabwe all the way in a dramatic chase. Opener Kashyap Prajapati crashed 103 off 97 balls to help them stay within touching distance.