Sri Lanka's Thrilling Victory Marred by Slow Over-Rate Fine After Zimbabwe Clash

Sri Lanka faced a five percent match fee penalty for maintaining a slow over-rate in their first ODI victory against Zimbabwe in Harare on August 31. The team was found one over short of the target after time allowances, leading to sanctions imposed by ICC Elite Panel Match Referee Jeff Crowe.The penalty was enforced under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which mandates a five percent match fee fine for each over not bowled in the allotted time. Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka accepted the proposed sanction, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.Sri Lanka secured a narrow seven-run victory thanks to Dilshan Madushanka's decisive hat-trick in the final over. The team posted 298/6 in their 50 overs, powered by half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka (76), Janith Liyanage (70 not out), and Kamindu Mendis (57 not out).Zimbabwe's chase began disastrously, losing Brian Bennett and Brendan Taylor for ducks in the first over. However, Ben Curran (70) and captain Sean Williams (57) stabilized the innings with a 118-run partnership.The hosts' hopes were further revived by a 128-run stand between Sikandar Raza (92) and Tony Munyonga (43 not out). With 10 runs needed in the final over, Madushanka's hat-trick sealed Zimbabwe's fate as they finished at 291/8.Madushanka claimed the Player of the Match award for his bowling figures of 4/62, while Asitha Fernando supported well with 3/50. The victory gave Sri Lanka a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.The match showcased strong batting performances from both sides, with Sri Lanka's innings featuring Nissanka's 76 off 92 balls with 12 fours, Liyanage's quick 70 off 47 balls with six fours and three sixes, and Mendis's aggressive 57 off 36 balls including four boundaries and two sixes.Zimbabwe's notable batting contributions came from Curran's 70 off 90 balls with eight fours, Williams's 57 off 74 balls with eight fours and two sixes, and Raza's 92 off 87 balls featuring eight fours.