| 17.01.2010 |
 Sri Lanka's seam bowlers set up an eight-wicket win over Zimbabwe in Christchurch. Play was delayed by nearly three hours due to rain, meaning the match was reduced to 34 overs. Sri Lanka opted to field, and Chathura Peiris made immediate inroads with the new ball. In the first over he sent back Peter Moor, setting in motion a procession of wickets against the moving ball under overcast skies. Kasun Madushanka bowled a very economical spell as well, and Zimbabwe were then put under severe stress by the left-arm pacer Charith Jayampathi, who ran down the middle order with three wickets.
It was all over for Zimbabwe at 20 for 6. Tinotenda Mutombodzi gave a sheen of respectability to the total with an unbeaten 42, losing Nathan Waller for 10 to a poor call from the umpire Sarika Prasad when replays showed no deviation. That wicket gave Jayampathi his fourth. Chasing 122, Sri Lanka were eased home by Bhanuka Rajapaksa's unbeaten 49.
Zimbabwean supporters rallied behind the boys and provided free entertainment as they chanted and danced for the better part of the afternoon.
In the end, it took more than the drums, the loud songs and chants as Sri Lanka eased home with 58 balls to spare.
Zimbabwe now face hosts, New Zealand on Tuesday at the same venue (Lincoln) on Tuesday.
The Zimbabwe Society in South Island is throwing a reception for the team on Tuesday 19th, 8pm at Knox Presbyterian Church, 28 Bealey Avenue. Please bring a plate.
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