NEW DELHI: Zimbabwe pulled off a sensational win in Colombo on Tuesday, securing their first T20 international victory against Sri Lanka in dramatic fashion.
Chasing a target of 174, Zimbabwe required 20 runs off the last over bowled by Angelo Mathews, ultimately triumphing by four wickets with a ball to spare.
Match-winner Luke Jongwe
Mathews, Sri Lanka’s batting hero with an unbeaten 66, found himself on the receiving end in the final over as Zimbabwe’s Luke Jongwe smashed three sixes, guiding his team to a remarkable victory.
Jongwe, who also contributed with the ball by claiming two wickets, was named the man of the match for his outstanding all-round performance.
“I am just lost for words… very pleased with what we did today,” said Jongwe, expressing his elation after the thrilling encounter.

Thrilling final over
In the nail-biting last over, Jongwe’s aggressive batting turned the tide in Zimbabwe’s favor. His six over long-on on the first ball, coupled with Mathews’ overstepping, set the equation at 13 off six balls. Jongwe continued his assault with a boundary off the free hit and another six, leaving just three runs required off four balls.
Despite Mathews managing a dot ball, a dropped catch off the next delivery allowed the batters to complete a crucial single. Clive Madande, on strike for the penultimate ball, seized the opportunity and swept a six to finish the match in style.
Zimbabwe’s skipper Sikandar Raza expressed disbelief at the win, stating, “We kept fighting…. We took it to the last and glad we pulled it off.”

Dropped catches and misfields
Sri Lanka were plagued by sloppy fielding that included dropped catches and misfields. Craig Ervine‘s career-best T20I score of 70 off 54 balls, featuring six fours and two sixes, played a pivotal role in keeping Zimbabwe in the hunt.
Zimbabwe managed to capitalize on Sri Lanka’s mistakes and pull off an unlikely victory.
‘Flop & disappointing’
Sri Lanka’s captain Wanindu Hasaranga admitted his team’s shortcomings, stating, “Our top order was a flop, and our fielding was very disappointing.” However, he remained hopeful of bouncing back and winning the series.
With the series tied at 1-1, the final game on Thursday is set to be the decisive match to determine the series victor.
(With inputs from AFP)