After enjoying an unbeaten run into the Super Six stage Zimbabwe's dream of sealing their place in the World Cup 2023 ended on a bitter note, as they suffered back-to-back losses to Sri Lanka and Scotland in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier on Tuesday at the Queens Sports Club.

Chris Sole's searing new-ball spell put Scotland in the driver's seat after their batters managed to scrape their way to put on a competitive total on the board. Sole sent back opener Joylord Gumbie off the first ball and then sent skipper Craig Ervine back, Zimbabwe were down two wickets before the third over ended.

The host stumbled once again as the in-form batter Sean Williams was bowled by Sole in the seventh over with Zimbabwe's score still under 30, establishing Scotland's dominance.

They could have furthered increased their advantage if Chris Greaves held onto a catch. But, Scotland compensated for the missed opportunity as they found a wicket at the other end with Innocent Kaia dismissed for a score of 12(19).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-how-ashes-has-always-been-too-political-as-uk-oz-pms-get-involved-in-jonny-bairstow-row-611837">Explained | How Ashes has always been too political as UK, Oz PMs get involved in Jonny Bairstow row</a>

From that point, Raza, alongside Ryan Burl, laid the groundwork for a solid partnership to pull Zimbabwe back into the game.

But Greaves rose to the occasion and made amends for the missed opportunity by sending Raza back to the pavilion in his first over to break the game-changing stand. Burl remained unfazed and went on to complete his fifty, and Wessly Madhevere turned out to be the ideal company. Their partnership restored Zimbabwe's faith and confidence once again.

However, Scotland didn't let their heads down as Mark Watt brought Scotland back into the game when he trapped Madhevere in front of the stumps for 40 in the 31st over.

Burl's continued onslaught on Scotland bowlers kept the entire team on their toes with Wellington Masakadza holding up the other end.

When McMullen returned to dismiss Masakadza, Scotland had an opening at the tail and Burl had no other option but to attack.

Burl smashed Leask for a four and a six consecutively before another slog attempt brought an end to his impressive knock of 83 (84).

Safyaan Sharif brought an end to Zimbabwe's innings to help Scotland leapfrog them in the points table with a 31-run victory and further boost their World Cup hopes.

The Netherlands-Scotland match on Thursday becomes a virtual eliminator with the winner booking their spot alongside Sri Lanka for Cricket World Cup 2023.

Earlier, a half-century stand at the top of the order from Christopher McBride and Matthew Cross was followed by another impressive start from Brandon McMullen.

But Scotland's charge against the hosts came to a pause when Sean Williams decided to put up the cape and become a hero with the ball.

The Zimbabwean, who had bowled only 15 overs without taking a wicket across six matches in this tournament before this game, ran riot for the hosts.

The left-arm spinner sent back Cross with a slower one that the batter missed entirely while trying to slog sweep. Having broken the dangerous stand between Cross and McMullen, Williams went on to dent the Scots with the wicket of the latter.

A floated-up delivery on off-stump was slogged straight to long-on and Zimbabwe had two quick wickets and two new batters at the crease.

Williams still wasn't done, and his deliveries were holding up just a bit in the wicket to trouble the big hits Scotland were targeting.

Richie Berrington was next to fall, trying the same fateful shot that saw the demise of the two batters before him. Looking to go aerial down the ground, Berrington miscued the loft to long-off and Scotland had gone from 102/1 to 118/4.

Richard Ngarava firmly swung the contest Zimbabwe's way with a peach of a delivery, a yorker fired in fast at the base of the middle stump. Munsey was beaten all ends up and departed for 31, leaving Scotland in tatters.

After executing the hits off Ngarava and Muzarabani, Leask raced to 38 off 30 balls by the end of the 48th over with Scotland's total crossed 200.

A six next over took Leask to 48, but Tendai Chatara sent him back to give Zimbabwe a big wicket.

In the end, Mark Watt managed to pull off 13 in the final over to push Scotland's total to 234/8, a competitive total even if chasing has been easier in the Queens Sports Club.

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After enjoying an unbeaten run into the Super Six stage Zimbabwe's dream of sealing their place in the World Cup 2023 ended on a bitter note, as they suffered back-to-back losses to Sri Lanka and Scotland in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier on Tuesday at the Queens Sports Club.

After enjoying an unbeaten run into the Super Six stage Zimbabwe's dream of sealing their place in the World Cup 2023 ended on a bitter note, as they suffered back-to-back losses to Sri Lanka and Scotland in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier on Tuesday at the Queens Sports Club. Chris Sole's searing new-ball spell put Scotland in the driver's seat after their batters managed to scrape their way to put on a competitive total on the board. Sole sent back opener Joylord Gumbie off the first ball and then sent skipper Craig Ervine back, Zimbabwe were down two wickets before the third over ended. The host stumbled once again as the in-form batter Sean Williams was bowled by Sole in the seventh over with Zimbabwe's score still under 30, establishing Scotland's dominance. They could have furthered increased their advantage if Chris Greaves held onto a catch. But, Scotland compensated for the missed opportunity as they found a wicket at the other end with Innocent Kaia dismissed for a score of 12(19). ALSO READ | Explained | How Ashes has always been too political as UK, Oz PMs get involved in Jonny Bairstow row From that point, Raza, alongside Ryan Burl, laid the groundwork for a solid partnership to pull Zimbabwe back into the game. But Greaves rose to the occasion and made amends for the missed opportunity by sending Raza back to the pavilion in his first over to break the game-changing stand. Burl remained unfazed and went on to complete his fifty, and Wessly Madhevere turned out to be the ideal company. Their partnership restored Zimbabwe's faith and confidence once again. However, Scotland didn't let their heads down as Mark Watt brought Scotland back into the game when he trapped Madhevere in front of the stumps for 40 in the 31st over. Burl's continued onslaught on Scotland bowlers kept the entire team on their toes with Wellington Masakadza holding up the other end. When McMullen returned to dismiss Masakadza, Scotland had an opening at the tail and Burl had no other option but to attack. Burl smashed Leask for a four and a six consecutively before another slog attempt brought an end to his impressive knock of 83 (84). Safyaan Sharif brought an end to Zimbabwe's innings to help Scotland leapfrog them in the points table with a 31-run victory and further boost their World Cup hopes. The Netherlands-Scotland match on Thursday becomes a virtual eliminator with the winner booking their spot alongside Sri Lanka for Cricket World Cup 2023. Earlier, a half-century stand at the top of the order from Christopher McBride and Matthew Cross was followed by another impressive start from Brandon McMullen. But Scotland's charge against the hosts came to a pause when Sean Williams decided to put up the cape and become a hero with the ball. The Zimbabwean, who had bowled only 15 overs without taking a wicket across six matches in this tournament before this game, ran riot for the hosts. The left-arm spinner sent back Cross with a slower one that the batter missed entirely while trying to slog sweep. Having broken the dangerous stand between Cross and McMullen, Williams went on to dent the Scots with the wicket of the latter. A floated-up delivery on off-stump was slogged straight to long-on and Zimbabwe had two quick wickets and two new batters at the crease. Williams still wasn't done, and his deliveries were holding up just a bit in the wicket to trouble the big hits Scotland were targeting. Richie Berrington was next to fall, trying the same fateful shot that saw the demise of the two batters before him. Looking to go aerial down the ground, Berrington miscued the loft to long-off and Scotland had gone from 102/1 to 118/4. Richard Ngarava firmly swung the contest Zimbabwe's way with a peach of a delivery, a yorker fired in fast at the base of the middle stump. Munsey was beaten all ends up and departed for 31, leaving Scotland in tatters. After executing the hits off Ngarava and Muzarabani, Leask raced to 38 off 30 balls by the end of the 48th over with Scotland's total crossed 200. A six next over took Leask to 48, but Tendai Chatara sent him back to give Zimbabwe a big wicket. In the end, Mark Watt managed to pull off 13 in the final over to push Scotland's total to 234/8, a competitive total even if chasing has been easier in the Queens Sports Club. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC Qualifiers: Zimbabwe stunned in another major upset as hosts get knocked out by Scotland

Following his side's win over Oman in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers, Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine said 280-290 runs looked really good on the pitch when they came to bat and lauded centurion Sean Williams for helping the team get some more extra runs.

A century by Sean Williams and powerful bowling performances by Blessing Muzarabani and Tendai Chatara helped Zimbabwe overcome a valiant effort from Oman in the first match of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 qualifiers at Bulawayo on Thursday as they defeated the visitors by 14 runs. "It was a tough game of cricket for us.

(On the score) When he started batting, we felt 280-290 was going to be a good score. When we started our bowling innings, we figured out the pitch was good to bat on. Thankfully Sean Williams produced a special innings to get us up to 330 (332). (On the bowling display) The wicket did seem quite a bit different to the morning. Our bowlers missed our lengths and our lines a little bit and made it easier for Oman," said Ervine in a post-match presentation.

It is quite tough to say (On what is a good score). You lose the toss and you get put into bat, the first 10 overs were quite a touch. We thought 280 was a good score. Obviously bowling second, we have to look at around 300-320. If the wicket is going to get better, you need a little bit extra to defend that. (Message to the team) We have been playing some really good cricket. I do not think we need to change too much. I thought today we still did our job extremely well. Two days to bounce back before we face Sri Lanka," he added.

Coming to the match, Zimbabwe was put to bat first by Oman. Sean Williams struck his third century of the tournament, scoring 142 in 103 balls, with 14 fours and three sixes. Luke Jongwe (43* in 28 balls, with four boundaries) and Sikandar Raza (42 in 49 balls, with six fours) put on good scores for Zimbabwe. The hosts put on 332/7 in their 50 overs. yt

Fayyaz Butt (4/79) was the pick of the bowlers for Oman.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-and-france-teammates-raise-concern-after-police-kills-teenager-during-traffic-check-610052">Kylian Mbappe and France teammates raise concern after police kills teenager during traffic check</a>

In the chase of 333, an 83-run stand for the second wicket between Kashyap Prajapati and Aqib Ilyas (45 in 61 balls, with five fours) helped Oman keep up with the required run rate. Ayaan Khan (47 in 43 balls, with five fours), skipper Zeeshan Maqsood (37 in 40 balls, with three fours and a six), Mohammad Nadeem (30* in 18 balls, with four boundaries and a six) helped Oman pose a fight, but they fell 14 runs short, finishing at 318/9 in 50 overs.

Blessing Muzarabani (3/57) and Tendai Chatara (3/73) were the pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe.

Sean won the 'Player of the Match' for his century.

With this, Zimbabwe has six points in their tally on the Super Six table and are at the top, while Oman is at the bottom. This was Zimbabwe's seventh ODI win in a row.

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Following his side's win over Oman in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers, Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine said 280-290 runs looked really good on the pitch when they came to bat and lauded centurion Sean Williams for helping the team get some more extra runs.

Following his side's win over Oman in the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers, Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine said 280-290 runs looked really good on the pitch when they came to bat and lauded centurion Sean Williams for helping the team get some more extra runs. A century by Sean Williams and powerful bowling performances by Blessing Muzarabani and Tendai Chatara helped Zimbabwe overcome a valiant effort from Oman in the first match of ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 qualifiers at Bulawayo on Thursday as they defeated the visitors by 14 runs. "It was a tough game of cricket for us. (On the score) When he started batting, we felt 280-290 was going to be a good score. When we started our bowling innings, we figured out the pitch was good to bat on. Thankfully Sean Williams produced a special innings to get us up to 330 (332). (On the bowling display) The wicket did seem quite a bit different to the morning. Our bowlers missed our lengths and our lines a little bit and made it easier for Oman," said Ervine in a post-match presentation. It is quite tough to say (On what is a good score). You lose the toss and you get put into bat, the first 10 overs were quite a touch. We thought 280 was a good score. Obviously bowling second, we have to look at around 300-320. If the wicket is going to get better, you need a little bit extra to defend that. (Message to the team) We have been playing some really good cricket. I do not think we need to change too much. I thought today we still did our job extremely well. Two days to bounce back before we face Sri Lanka," he added. Coming to the match, Zimbabwe was put to bat first by Oman. Sean Williams struck his third century of the tournament, scoring 142 in 103 balls, with 14 fours and three sixes. Luke Jongwe (43* in 28 balls, with four boundaries) and Sikandar Raza (42 in 49 balls, with six fours) put on good scores for Zimbabwe. The hosts put on 332/7 in their 50 overs. yt Fayyaz Butt (4/79) was the pick of the bowlers for Oman. ALSO READ | Kylian Mbappe and France teammates raise concern after police kills teenager during traffic check In the chase of 333, an 83-run stand for the second wicket between Kashyap Prajapati and Aqib Ilyas (45 in 61 balls, with five fours) helped Oman keep up with the required run rate. Ayaan Khan (47 in 43 balls, with five fours), skipper Zeeshan Maqsood (37 in 40 balls, with three fours and a six), Mohammad Nadeem (30* in 18 balls, with four boundaries and a six) helped Oman pose a fight, but they fell 14 runs short, finishing at 318/9 in 50 overs. Blessing Muzarabani (3/57) and Tendai Chatara (3/73) were the pick of the bowlers for Zimbabwe. Sean won the 'Player of the Match' for his century. With this, Zimbabwe has six points in their tally on the Super Six table and are at the top, while Oman is at the bottom. This was Zimbabwe's seventh ODI win in a row. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC Qualifiers: 280-290 looked good on this pitch, says Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine after win over Oman

A monstrous century by opener Paul Stirling followed by exceptional contributions from bowlers helped Ireland end their disappointing ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2023 campaign with a 138-run consolation win over UAE at Bulawayo on Tuesday.

With this win, Ireland ends their group-stage campaign in fourth place in Group B, with one win and three losses. They have a total of only two points. UAE is at the bottom, having lost all of their four matches. In the chase of 350, UAE started off well with a 58-run opening stand between Muhammad Waseem (45 in 32 balls, with six fours and two sixes) and Aryansh Sharma (18). After the dismissal of Waseem, UAE lost some wickets quickly. They were reduced to 109/6 in 20.3 overs.

Then came a 70-run stand for the seventh wicket between Basil Hameed (39 in 52 balls, with three sixes) and Sanchit Sharma (44 in 54 with a four and three sixes). With the required rate getting higher, it did not keep them in the game, but atleast put UAE in a position to bow out of the tournament with a respectful score.

But their dismissals left UAE with very little firepower and they were bundled out for 211 in 39 overs.

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The race for the final two <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> spots is heating up 🔥 
 
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Andy McBrine (2/34), George Dockrell (2/32), Josh Little (2/30) and Curtis Campher (2/14) were impressive with the ball for Ireland.

Earlier, put to bat first by UAE, Ireland posted a massive 349/4 in their 50 overs.

Paul Stirling's powerful century, a knock of 162 in 134 balls, with 15 fours and eight sixes largely powered the Irish innings.

He had a 183-run third wicket stand with skipper Andy Balbirnie (66 in 88 balls, with five fours and a six).

Harry Tector, the top-ranked Irish batter, continued his rich run of form with a knock of 57 in 33 balls. His knock had four boundaries and two sixes.

Wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker and George Dockrell fired small, but impactful cameos in the end to take Ireland to a big score.

Sanchit Sharma (3/46) was the pick of the bowlers for UAE.

Stirling was given the 'Player of the Match' award for his century.

Earlier, half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka and an all-round effort from Maheesh Theekshana helped Sri Lanka defeat Scotland by 82 runs in their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifiers match by 82 runs on Tuesday to end their group stage on high.

With this win, Lanka end at the top of Group B with four wins in four games and a total of eight points. On the other hand, Scotland ends in second place with three wins and a loss in four matches, which combines to total of six points.

Chasing 246 set by one-time champions, Scotland lost their wickets at regular intervals and were reduced to 99/7 in 20.5 overs.

Christopher McBride (29) and skipper Richie Berrington (10) were the only players from top/middle-order to touch double figures. Sri Lankan spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Theekshana did majority of the damage, including some help from skipper Dasun Shanaka, Kasun Rajitha and Lahiru Kumara.

A 55-run stand between Chris Greaves (56 in 41 balls, with seven fours and two sixes) and Chris Sole (17) kept Scotland's hopes alive temporarily, but the experience of the former champions was just too much.

Scotland was bundled out for 163 in just 29 overs.

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Theekshana (3/41) and Hasaranga (2/42) were the pick of the bowlers for SL.

Earlier, put to bat first, SL could manage only 245 runs in 49.3 overs.

Pathum Nissanka (75 in 85 balls, with 10 fours) and Charith Asalanka (63 in 65 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes) slammed valuable half-centuries. Nissanka had a 55-run stand for the third wicket with Sadeera Samarawickrama (26) and then Asalanka had a 61-run fifth-wicket stand with Dhananjaya de Silva (23) that took Lanka to a 200-plus score.

Hasaranga (15) and Theekshana (16*) contributed some valuable runs down the order.

Chris Greaves (4/32) and Mark Watt (3/52) were among the leading wicket-takers for Scotland.

Theekshana was given the 'Player of the Match' award for his performance.

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A monstrous century by opener Paul Stirling followed by exceptional contributions from bowlers helped Ireland end their disappointing ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2023 campaign with a 138-run consolation win over UAE at Bulawayo on Tuesday.

A monstrous century by opener Paul Stirling followed by exceptional contributions from bowlers helped Ireland end their disappointing ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers 2023 campaign with a 138-run consolation win over UAE at Bulawayo on Tuesday. With this win, Ireland ends their group-stage campaign in fourth place in Group B, with one win and three losses. They have a total of only two points. UAE is at the bottom, having lost all of their four matches. In the chase of 350, UAE started off well with a 58-run opening stand between Muhammad Waseem (45 in 32 balls, with six fours and two sixes) and Aryansh Sharma (18). After the dismissal of Waseem, UAE lost some wickets quickly. They were reduced to 109/6 in 20.3 overs. Then came a 70-run stand for the seventh wicket between Basil Hameed (39 in 52 balls, with three sixes) and Sanchit Sharma (44 in 54 with a four and three sixes). With the required rate getting higher, it did not keep them in the game, but atleast put UAE in a position to bow out of the tournament with a respectful score. But their dismissals left UAE with very little firepower and they were bundled out for 211 in 39 overs. The race for the final two #CWC23 spots is heating up 🔥 How the Super Six standings look at the end of the Qualifier group stages 👀 pic.twitter.com/B2xTVFb72V — ICC (@ICC) June 27, 2023 × Andy McBrine (2/34), George Dockrell (2/32), Josh Little (2/30) and Curtis Campher (2/14) were impressive with the ball for Ireland. Earlier, put to bat first by UAE, Ireland posted a massive 349/4 in their 50 overs. Paul Stirling's powerful century, a knock of 162 in 134 balls, with 15 fours and eight sixes largely powered the Irish innings. He had a 183-run third wicket stand with skipper Andy Balbirnie (66 in 88 balls, with five fours and a six). Harry Tector, the top-ranked Irish batter, continued his rich run of form with a knock of 57 in 33 balls. His knock had four boundaries and two sixes. Wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker and George Dockrell fired small, but impactful cameos in the end to take Ireland to a big score. Sanchit Sharma (3/46) was the pick of the bowlers for UAE. Stirling was given the 'Player of the Match' award for his century. Earlier, half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka and an all-round effort from Maheesh Theekshana helped Sri Lanka defeat Scotland by 82 runs in their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifiers match by 82 runs on Tuesday to end their group stage on high. With this win, Lanka end at the top of Group B with four wins in four games and a total of eight points. On the other hand, Scotland ends in second place with three wins and a loss in four matches, which combines to total of six points. Chasing 246 set by one-time champions, Scotland lost their wickets at regular intervals and were reduced to 99/7 in 20.5 overs. Christopher McBride (29) and skipper Richie Berrington (10) were the only players from top/middle-order to touch double figures. Sri Lankan spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Theekshana did majority of the damage, including some help from skipper Dasun Shanaka, Kasun Rajitha and Lahiru Kumara. A 55-run stand between Chris Greaves (56 in 41 balls, with seven fours and two sixes) and Chris Sole (17) kept Scotland's hopes alive temporarily, but the experience of the former champions was just too much. Scotland was bundled out for 163 in just 29 overs. ALSO READ | Not India vs Pakistan! Muttiah Muralitharan names the match he is looking forward to in ODI World Cup Theekshana (3/41) and Hasaranga (2/42) were the pick of the bowlers for SL. Earlier, put to bat first, SL could manage only 245 runs in 49.3 overs. Pathum Nissanka (75 in 85 balls, with 10 fours) and Charith Asalanka (63 in 65 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes) slammed valuable half-centuries. Nissanka had a 55-run stand for the third wicket with Sadeera Samarawickrama (26) and then Asalanka had a 61-run fifth-wicket stand with Dhananjaya de Silva (23) that took Lanka to a 200-plus score. Hasaranga (15) and Theekshana (16*) contributed some valuable runs down the order. Chris Greaves (4/32) and Mark Watt (3/52) were among the leading wicket-takers for Scotland. Theekshana was given the 'Player of the Match' award for his performance. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC Qualifiers: Stirling's ton powers Ireland to consolation win over UAE, Sri Lanka end group stage on high

Riding on spinning ace Wanindu Hasaranga's five-wicket haul and Dimuth Karunaratne's 61*, Sri Lanka outplayed Oman to register thumping 10-wicket victory at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Friday.

With this win, they are at the top of Group B and position themself strongly to qualify for the Super Six stages of the tournament. Chasing a low total of 99, openers Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka barely broke a sweat, completing the task in 15 overs. Karunaratne was unbeaten on 61 while Nissanka scored 37* as Sri Lanka not only sealed a win but also bolstered their net run rate.

Earlier, Sri Lanka had won the toss at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo and opted to bowl first. His call paid immediate dividends as Sri Lanka had a brilliant start with the ball, with their pacers breathing fire on the Oman batters. The pace of Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha was too much for the Oman top-order to handle, as they found themselves in massive trouble early on.

Kashyap Prajapati was the first wicket to fall, as Kumara trapped him in front of the stumps. Aqib Ilyas followed suit, with Rajitha getting in on the act.

Kumara was in no mood to stop as he sent Zeeshan Maqsood and Mohammad Nadeem packing in quick succession, as Oman found themselves reeling at 20/4.

Ayaan Khan and Jatinder Singh then embarked on a rebuild job for Oman, putting together a 52-run stand. But it all changed again in a blink of an eye for Oman, as Wanindu Hasaranga delivered one of the overs of the Qualifier so far.

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The 21st over by Hasaranga fetched him three wickets while also being a maiden. Hasaranga first trapped Jatinder Singh lbw for 21 in the first delivery. The third delivery then saw him bowl Shoaib Khan out. He completed the trifecta by getting Jay Odedra on the final delivery of the over.

Oman then found themselves in further trouble as miscommunication between Ayaan Khan and Naseem Khushi led to the latter being run out for 1 after brilliant work in the deep from Rajitha.

Oman were reduced to 84/8 at the halfway mark.

Ayaan's gritty knock of 41 would then come to an end with Hasaranga scalping his fourth courtesy of a brilliant catch in the slips by Dhananjaya de Silva. Hasaranga would clinch his second consecutive five-wicket haul in the tournament, trapping Bilal Khan for zero, as Oman were bowled out for 98.

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Riding on spinning ace Wanindu Hasaranga's five-wicket haul and Dimuth Karunaratne's 61*, Sri Lanka outplayed Oman to register thumping 10-wicket victory at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Friday.

Riding on spinning ace Wanindu Hasaranga's five-wicket haul and Dimuth Karunaratne's 61*, Sri Lanka outplayed Oman to register thumping 10-wicket victory at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on Friday. With this win, they are at the top of Group B and position themself strongly to qualify for the Super Six stages of the tournament. Chasing a low total of 99, openers Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka barely broke a sweat, completing the task in 15 overs. Karunaratne was unbeaten on 61 while Nissanka scored 37* as Sri Lanka not only sealed a win but also bolstered their net run rate. Earlier, Sri Lanka had won the toss at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo and opted to bowl first. His call paid immediate dividends as Sri Lanka had a brilliant start with the ball, with their pacers breathing fire on the Oman batters. The pace of Lahiru Kumara and Kasun Rajitha was too much for the Oman top-order to handle, as they found themselves in massive trouble early on. Kashyap Prajapati was the first wicket to fall, as Kumara trapped him in front of the stumps. Aqib Ilyas followed suit, with Rajitha getting in on the act. Kumara was in no mood to stop as he sent Zeeshan Maqsood and Mohammad Nadeem packing in quick succession, as Oman found themselves reeling at 20/4. Ayaan Khan and Jatinder Singh then embarked on a rebuild job for Oman, putting together a 52-run stand. But it all changed again in a blink of an eye for Oman, as Wanindu Hasaranga delivered one of the overs of the Qualifier so far. ALSO READ | Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag reacts to rumours of being approached for chief selector’s post The 21st over by Hasaranga fetched him three wickets while also being a maiden. Hasaranga first trapped Jatinder Singh lbw for 21 in the first delivery. The third delivery then saw him bowl Shoaib Khan out. He completed the trifecta by getting Jay Odedra on the final delivery of the over. Oman then found themselves in further trouble as miscommunication between Ayaan Khan and Naseem Khushi led to the latter being run out for 1 after brilliant work in the deep from Rajitha. Oman were reduced to 84/8 at the halfway mark. Ayaan's gritty knock of 41 would then come to an end with Hasaranga scalping his fourth courtesy of a brilliant catch in the slips by Dhananjaya de Silva. Hasaranga would clinch his second consecutive five-wicket haul in the tournament, trapping Bilal Khan for zero, as Oman were bowled out for 98. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup Qualifiers: Sri Lanka ride on Wanindu Hasaranga's five-for to record 10-wicket victory over Oman

Shai Hope and Nicholas Pooran hit centuries to propel the West Indies to a convincing 101-run win over Nepal at the World Cup Qualifier in Harare on Thursday.

Hope scored 132 while Pooran made a brisk 115 as the pair put on 216 for the fourth wicket to help the two-time champions post 339-7 after a bad start to the innings.

Kyle Mayers fell for just one and Johnson Charles was out for nought&nbsp;as the West Indies slumped to 9-2. Opener Brandon King made 32 before he was bowled by leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane.

"We were put on the back foot there," said Hope.

"The key was absorbing as much pressure as possible and then find a way to transfer that pressure in the back end.&nbsp;

"Pooran made it a lot easier for me. The aim was to take it as deep as possible give us the best chance towards the end."

Hope and Pooran joined forces in the 16th over and took the game away from Nepal, who were left to rue a dropped catch off Pooran early in his innings.

Wicketkeeper Aasif Sheikh put down a Pooran edge off left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi when the batsman was on just three.

With Hope ticking along at a more sedate pace, Pooran took on the role of aggressor before both players reached their hundreds in the 40th over.

Hope completed his 15th ODI ton off 107 balls before Pooran carved Gulsan Jha to the boundary a few deliveries later to bring up his second one-day century off 81 balls -- four years after his first.

Dipendra Singh Airee eventually removed Pooran for 115 with a terrific catch off his own bowling but Rovman Powell kept the runs flowing with a quick-fire 29 alongside Jason Holder's 16 not out.

Hope holed out to long-off in the final over for 132 and Keemo Paul was bowled off the last ball as Rajbanshi finished with 3-52.

<h2>Nepal pursuit rocked</h2>

Nepal's chase began poorly with Alzarri Joseph uprooting Kushal Bhurtel's off stump in the second over. Bhim Sharki soon followed when he was caught behind off Holder trying a scoop shot.

Several Nepali batsmen made decent starts but only Aarif Sheikh passed fifty, reaching 63 before falling to a stunning Pooran catch in the deep as his team was bowled out for 238.

Holder took 3-34 for the West Indies with Joseph, Paul and Akeal Hosein all picking up two wickets.

The West Indies have won their first two matches and moved above tournament hosts Zimbabwe on net run rate at the top of Group A. The two nations meet in their next match on Saturday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-bell-claims-australia-have-more-to-work-on-despite-cummins-cos-narrow-win-in-edgbaston-607319">Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins &amp; Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston</a>

In Thursday's other game, the Netherlands bounced back from an opening loss to Zimbabwe by condemning the United States to a third straight defeat.

Shayan Jahangir top-scored with 71 as the USA scrapped their way to 211-8, but Dutch captain Scott Edwards led his team to a five-wicket victory with an unbeaten 67 after Teja Nidamanuru steadied the innings with his 58.

The USA are eliminated from contention while the Netherlands and Nepal face off Saturday in a contest that will likely determine which team advances to the Super Six stage.

The qualifiers continue on Friday with surprise Group B leaders Oman hunting a third successive win against Sri Lanka in Bulawayo, while Scotland play the United Arab Emirates.

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Shai Hope and Nicholas Pooran hit centuries to propel the West Indies to a convincing 101-run win over Nepal at the World Cup Qualifier in Harare on Thursday. Hope scored 132 while Pooran made a brisk 115 as the pair put on 216 for the fourth wicket to help the two-time champions post 339-7 after a bad start to the innings.

Shai Hope and Nicholas Pooran hit centuries to propel the West Indies to a convincing 101-run win over Nepal at the World Cup Qualifier in Harare on Thursday. Hope scored 132 while Pooran made a brisk 115 as the pair put on 216 for the fourth wicket to help the two-time champions post 339-7 after a bad start to the innings. Kyle Mayers fell for just one and Johnson Charles was out for nought as the West Indies slumped to 9-2. Opener Brandon King made 32 before he was bowled by leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane. "We were put on the back foot there," said Hope. "The key was absorbing as much pressure as possible and then find a way to transfer that pressure in the back end. "Pooran made it a lot easier for me. The aim was to take it as deep as possible give us the best chance towards the end." Hope and Pooran joined forces in the 16th over and took the game away from Nepal, who were left to rue a dropped catch off Pooran early in his innings. Wicketkeeper Aasif Sheikh put down a Pooran edge off left-arm spinner Lalit Rajbanshi when the batsman was on just three. With Hope ticking along at a more sedate pace, Pooran took on the role of aggressor before both players reached their hundreds in the 40th over. Hope completed his 15th ODI ton off 107 balls before Pooran carved Gulsan Jha to the boundary a few deliveries later to bring up his second one-day century off 81 balls -- four years after his first. Dipendra Singh Airee eventually removed Pooran for 115 with a terrific catch off his own bowling but Rovman Powell kept the runs flowing with a quick-fire 29 alongside Jason Holder's 16 not out. Hope holed out to long-off in the final over for 132 and Keemo Paul was bowled off the last ball as Rajbanshi finished with 3-52. Nepal pursuit rocked Nepal's chase began poorly with Alzarri Joseph uprooting Kushal Bhurtel's off stump in the second over. Bhim Sharki soon followed when he was caught behind off Holder trying a scoop shot. Several Nepali batsmen made decent starts but only Aarif Sheikh passed fifty, reaching 63 before falling to a stunning Pooran catch in the deep as his team was bowled out for 238. Holder took 3-34 for the West Indies with Joseph, Paul and Akeal Hosein all picking up two wickets. The West Indies have won their first two matches and moved above tournament hosts Zimbabwe on net run rate at the top of Group A. The two nations meet in their next match on Saturday. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Bell claims 'Australia have more to work on' despite Cummins & Co.'s narrow win in Edgbaston In Thursday's other game, the Netherlands bounced back from an opening loss to Zimbabwe by condemning the United States to a third straight defeat. Shayan Jahangir top-scored with 71 as the USA scrapped their way to 211-8, but Dutch captain Scott Edwards led his team to a five-wicket victory with an unbeaten 67 after Teja Nidamanuru steadied the innings with his 58. The USA are eliminated from contention while the Netherlands and Nepal face off Saturday in a contest that will likely determine which team advances to the Super Six stage. The qualifiers continue on Friday with surprise Group B leaders Oman hunting a third successive win against Sri Lanka in Bulawayo, while Scotland play the United Arab Emirates. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup Qualifiers: Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran fire West Indies to 101-run win over Nepal

Sikandar Raza delivered an all-rounder's masterclass to help Zimbabwe to a convincing six-wicket win over the Netherlands in their Cricket World Cup Group A qualifier on Tuesday. After first bagging four Dutch wickets, Raza then hit an entertaining unbeaten 102 off just 54 balls -- the fastest ever hundred in one-day internationals by a Zimbabwe player. The Netherlands had posted 315 for six wickets thanks to 88 from Vikramjit Singh, 83 from skipper Scott Edwards and 59 from Max O'Dowd.

Saqib Zulfiqar chipped in with a run-a-ball 34 not out to boost the total off their allotted 50 overs at the Harare Sports Club.

Raza proved to be the pick of the bowlers, picking up four wickets for 55 runs off his 10 overs.

Zimbabwe's run chase never seemed in doubt as Sean Williams hit a 58-ball 91 after openers Craig Ervine and Joylord Gumbie had contributed 50 and 40 runs respectively.

It was left to Raza to strike the winning runs, however, hoisting Logan van Beek over mid-off and into the stands for his eighth six in a spectacular display of power batting that had earlier seen him strike three consecutive sixes off Shariz Ahmad.

"I just wanted to go out there," said the 37-year-old Pakistan-born all-rounder, who sealed victory with 55 balls remaining.

"The&nbsp;platform was already set, I just wanted to stay humble and respect every ball but it was there, I went for it.

"As long as we win the game, we are happy and we are happy for each other's performance."

Group A's other match saw Nepal, who lost their opener to Zimbabwe, beat the United States by six wickets.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-english-fans-mock-steve-smith-with-saw-you-crying-on-telly-on-day-4-of-edgbaston-test-watch-606434">Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch</a>

Karachi-born wicketkeeper Shayan Jahangir&nbsp;hit an unbeaten 100 to help the US team reach 207 all out off 49 overs after recovering from being 18 for four wickets.

Sushant Modani&nbsp;chipped in with 42 and Gajanand Singh&nbsp;26, but the next best score was 12 and seven batsmen failed to make double digits as Karan Khatri Chhetri and Gulsan Jha shared seven wickets between them.

Bhim Sharki hit an unbeaten 77 while Kushal Bhurtel and Dipendra Singh Airee&nbsp;pitched in with 39 runs apiece as Nepal sealed the victory with ease, ending on 211/4 with 42 balls remaining.

It was a second defeat for the Americans after they went down to the West Indies in their opening game.

The action continues Wednesday, with Ireland facing Scotland and Oman taking on the United Arab Emirates in Group B matches at Bulawayo.

Only two of the 10 teams taking part in the three-week qualifier will make the World Cup to be played in India in October and November.

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Sikandar Raza delivered an all-rounder's masterclass to help Zimbabwe to a convincing six-wicket win over the Netherlands in their Cricket World Cup Group A qualifier on Tuesday.

Sikandar Raza delivered an all-rounder's masterclass to help Zimbabwe to a convincing six-wicket win over the Netherlands in their Cricket World Cup Group A qualifier on Tuesday. After first bagging four Dutch wickets, Raza then hit an entertaining unbeaten 102 off just 54 balls -- the fastest ever hundred in one-day internationals by a Zimbabwe player. The Netherlands had posted 315 for six wickets thanks to 88 from Vikramjit Singh, 83 from skipper Scott Edwards and 59 from Max O'Dowd. Saqib Zulfiqar chipped in with a run-a-ball 34 not out to boost the total off their allotted 50 overs at the Harare Sports Club. Raza proved to be the pick of the bowlers, picking up four wickets for 55 runs off his 10 overs. Zimbabwe's run chase never seemed in doubt as Sean Williams hit a 58-ball 91 after openers Craig Ervine and Joylord Gumbie had contributed 50 and 40 runs respectively. It was left to Raza to strike the winning runs, however, hoisting Logan van Beek over mid-off and into the stands for his eighth six in a spectacular display of power batting that had earlier seen him strike three consecutive sixes off Shariz Ahmad. "I just wanted to go out there," said the 37-year-old Pakistan-born all-rounder, who sealed victory with 55 balls remaining. "The platform was already set, I just wanted to stay humble and respect every ball but it was there, I went for it. "As long as we win the game, we are happy and we are happy for each other's performance." Group A's other match saw Nepal, who lost their opener to Zimbabwe, beat the United States by six wickets. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: English fans mock Steve Smith with 'saw you cry on telly' chants in Edgbaston Test - Watch Karachi-born wicketkeeper Shayan Jahangir hit an unbeaten 100 to help the US team reach 207 all out off 49 overs after recovering from being 18 for four wickets. Sushant Modani chipped in with 42 and Gajanand Singh 26, but the next best score was 12 and seven batsmen failed to make double digits as Karan Khatri Chhetri and Gulsan Jha shared seven wickets between them. Bhim Sharki hit an unbeaten 77 while Kushal Bhurtel and Dipendra Singh Airee pitched in with 39 runs apiece as Nepal sealed the victory with ease, ending on 211/4 with 42 balls remaining. It was a second defeat for the Americans after they went down to the West Indies in their opening game. The action continues Wednesday, with Ireland facing Scotland and Oman taking on the United Arab Emirates in Group B matches at Bulawayo. Only two of the 10 teams taking part in the three-week qualifier will make the World Cup to be played in India in October and November. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup Qualifier: Sikandar Raza masterclass helps Zimbabwe smash Netherlands in Harare

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