Sri Lanka Qualifies for ICC Men’s world cup 2023
Sri Lanka has made its imprint in cricket again, with a stunning win that ensures their inclusion in the highly awaited ICC Men’s World Cup 2023. Sri Lanka defeated hosts Zimbabwe by nine wickets in a dramatic qualifier, led by Pathum Nissanka’s outstanding effort.
Related: ICC CWC Schedule 2023 PDF Download
The Sri Lankan squad is now preparing for an exciting adventure in the world arena, with their spot in the World Cup secured. Join us as we go into the specifics of this success, examining the prominent events and the road that lead Sri Lanka to this historic accomplishment.
Nissanka’s Unbeaten Century Paves the Way
Pathum Nissanka was the match’s hero, scoring an incredible undefeated 101 runs. His brilliant knock led Sri Lanka to an easy win, leaving Zimbabwe behind. Nissanka’s stunning display of talent and poise cemented Sri Lanka’s World Cup spot, inspiring confidence in the squad and its fans.
Read: ICC cricket world cup 2023 Qualifier Schedule [ANNOUNCED]
The Road to Qualification
Sri Lanka now has eight points in the Super Six stage of the preliminary round after defeating Zimbabwe. This victory secures them a berth in the top two teams, which will compete in the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023 finals.
Read:- ICC Cricket World 2023 Watch Live Streaming
The competition, which will take place from October 5 to November 19, will allow Sri Lanka to display their talent worldwide.
Despite their loss, Zimbabwe is still in the running for World Cup qualifying. With six points, they have one more encounter left against Scotland, which presently has four points.
The outcome of this decisive meeting will determine Zimbabwe’s fate. Zimbabwe must win their last game to qualify for the World Cup, heightening the pressure and excitement around their forthcoming match.
Outstanding Bowling Performance
Sri Lanka’s choice to field first proved sensible, as they successfully reduced Zimbabwe to a meagre score of 165 in 32.2 overs. Off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana led the bowling assault with career-high figures of 4-25.
Check: ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Venues.
Dilshan Madushanka also had an effect, grabbing three wickets for 15 runs. Their combined performances highlighted Sri Lanka’s bowling power and laid the groundwork for a dominating chase.
Sri Lanka’s Conviction and Confidence
Captain Dasun Shanaka stated his everlasting confidence in the team’s World Cup qualifying.
“We knew with the team we had, we were going to qualify for the World Cup,” he said after the win.
Shanaka praised the other teams’ outstanding achievements throughout the competition but stressed Sri Lanka’s dominance. Qualifying for the World Cup is crucial for Sri Lanka because it provides a much-needed opportunity to exhibit their abilities on a large scale.
Who can be the other qualifier?
The question is, who will be the next qualifier? There were speculations that West Indies was going to be the other qualifier. But after their devastating performance, it seems like Netherlands or Zimbabwe may be the next qualifier.
Whoever will play the finale for the qualifying tournament will get the other two spots in the world cup. The first one is decided, which is Sri Lanka. Let’s see if the other team is either Netherlands or the hosts; Zimbabwe.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s convincing win against Zimbabwe ensured their berth in the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023. Pathum Nissanka’s undefeated century and Theekshana and Madushanka’s outstanding bowling efforts were crucial in this victory.
The qualifying fills Sri Lankan cricket fans with delight and eagerness as they anticipate their team’s performance in the coveted competition.
Sri Lanka will now prepare to play Pakistan on October 12 in Hyderabad. This further adds to the buzz and expectation surrounding the World Cup.