In a nail-biting encounter, Sri Lanka beat Zimbabwe by 2 wickets in the second One-Day International (2nd ODI) of a three-game series, taking a 1-0 lead.

In the first innings, Zimbabwe fell short of their 209-run target as they were bowled out for 208 in 44.4 overs. Craig Ervine provided an outstanding batting display, hitting 82 from 102 balls, and Ryan Burl added 31 off 37 deliveries. Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay, the two Sri Lankan bowlers, helped to stem Zimbabwe's second innings. Theekshana took 4 wickets for 31 runs off 9.4 overs, while Vandersay had 2 wickets for 47 in ten overs.

Chasing the target, Sri Lanka began the second innings with their wits about them in order to win again. They achieved victory with merely 2 wickets intact as they racked up 211/8 over 49 overs. Janith Liyanage was the leading batsman, just failing to make a century with an energetic 95 not out off 127 balls. 39 spent deliveries from Sahan Arachchige's bat produced 21 runs, and his support proved invaluable.

Zimbabwe, in contrast, struggled mightily to defend their total. Richard Ngarava bowled a bowling display for the ages, snaring a five-wicket haul for just 32 runs in his 10-over spell. Sikandar Raza also did his bit with 2 wickets for 32 runs in 10 overs.

The thrilling contest between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe was rife with exceptional performances from both sides, but in the end Sri Lanka stood firm and took a hard-won win. As the series goes on, these two competitive sides will provide more exciting contests for cricket fans.

Picture Credit - India TV News