Zimbabwe upset hosts in series opener
Elton Chigugumbura's fighting 64 and some disciplined bowling when defending a small total helped Zimbabwe post their first ODI win against a Test-playing nation since November 2007
Elton Chigugumbura's fighting 64 and some disciplined bowling when defending a small total helped Zimbabwe post their first ODI win against a Test-playing nation since November 2007
So Zimbabwe win by 38 runs and begin the tri-series on a high. They've been at the receiving end of a lot of defeats at the hands of Bangladesh over the last few years and they've turned it around here. The way they bowled and fielded today would have given even the bigger teams a run for their money. Utseya led from the front by bringing himself on in the second over and setting a fine example with his bowling, keeping the batsmen in check. Can't say the same for Ashraful, who perished in an indiscreet manner yet again.
All in all a very professional performance by Zimbabwe, particularly Chigumbura, who scored an under pressure 62, got the wicket of Shakib and effected a direct hit. Here's the presentation. All the proceeds of this game go to Manjural Islam Rana.
Ashraful: "Batsmen made starts and didn't carry on. Very disappointing performance."
Utseya: "Starting 2009 with a win, not more than that. We've been working hard back home. There's still room for improvement."
Chigumbura is the Man of the Match. "My performance was a long time coming, I struggled in my last season. Hopefully I will continue my good form."
That's it from us. We thank you for your patience, after all the tech glitches this morning. We'll be back in two days for game two - Sri Lanka v Zimbabwe (9.00 am local time). Till then, it's goodbye!
Mahbubul Alam c Matsikenyeri b Price 22 (32m 28b 1x4 1x6) SR: 78.57
Price to bowl his final over
Elton Chigugumbura's fighting 64 and some disciplined bowling when defending a small total helped Zimbabwe post their first ODI win against a Test-playing nation since November 2007