Don Makanyanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Zimbabwe booked a place in the final of the ODI tri-series in the United Arab Emirates after Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets in Wednesday’s decisive round-robin encounter.
Bangladesh went into the match needing victory to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive but were let down by their batting after being bowled out for 160 runs.
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Bangladesh struggled to post a competitive total, leaving Afghanistan with a straightforward target to chase.
Afghanistan made light work of the target, reaching 161 for three inside 36 overs to seal a comprehensive victory and confirm Zimbabwe’s place in the final.
The result means Zimbabwe, who finished second in the round-robin standings with two points from two matches, will meet Afghanistan in the final.
The Chevrons secured their place in the title decider after opening their campaign with an emphatic 99-run victory over Bangladesh before suffering a heavy 158-run defeat against Afghanistan in their second match.
Zimbabwe will now have an opportunity to bounce back from that setback and challenge for the title when they face Afghanistan in the final
