Did Sri Lanka Deserve a Penalty for Slow Over-Rate in First ODI against Zimbabwe?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating ODI match, Sri Lanka faced a penalty for a slow over-rate despite winning against Zimbabwe. This fine, involving a five percent deduction from match fees, highlights the importance of maintaining pace in international cricket. Discover how a hat-trick by Dilshan Madushanka clinched victory and what it means for the series ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka received a five percent fine for slow over-rate.
- Dilshan Madushanka achieved a hat-trick in the final over.
- Sri Lanka won the match by seven runs.
- Pathum Nissanka, Janith Liyanage, and Kamindu Mendis contributed significantly to the total score.
- The two teams will meet again for a T20I series.
Harare, Aug 31 (NationPress) Sri Lanka has been penalized five percent of their match fees for a slow over-rate during the first ODI against Zimbabwe. Despite this setback, Sri Lanka clinched a thrilling victory by seven runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
The ruling was made by Jeff Crowe from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, as the team fell one over short of the required target, even after accounting for time allowances.
According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct concerning minimum over-rate violations, players face a five percent fine from their match fee for each over not bowled within the designated time.
“There was no need for a formal hearing as skipper Charith Asalanka admitted guilt and accepted the proposed penalty,” the International Cricket Council (ICC) stated on Sunday.
In the match at Harare Sports Club, Sri Lanka’s left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka achieved a remarkable hat-trick in the last over, securing a thrilling win for the visitors. Defending 10 runs in the final over, Madushanka struck with the first three deliveries, shifting the momentum decisively in favor of Sri Lanka.
This accomplishment made Madushanka only the third Sri Lankan bowler to record multiple hat-tricks in ODI history, following in the footsteps of Lasith Malinga (3) and Chaminda Vaas. His first hat-trick in the format was against Bangladesh in 2018.
In their batting innings, Sri Lanka posted a total of 298/6, thanks to solid performances from Pathum Nissanka (76), Janith Liyanage (70 not out), and Kamindu Mendis (57). Madushanka's last-over heroics ensured Zimbabwe could not reach the target. Additionally, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe are set to engage in a three-match T20I series.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize that while Sri Lanka's slow over-rate resulted in a penalty, their thrilling victory against Zimbabwe showcases their resilience. This incident underscores the need for teams to balance their strategies and maintain pace to avoid such issues in future matches.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sri Lanka fined in the ODI against Zimbabwe?
Sri Lanka was fined five percent of their match fees for maintaining a slow over-rate, as they were one over short of the required target.
Who imposed the penalty on Sri Lanka?
The penalty was imposed by Jeff Crowe from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees.
What was the outcome of the first ODI between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe?
Sri Lanka won the first ODI by seven runs, leading the two-match series 1-0.
What achievement did Dilshan Madushanka accomplish in the match?
Dilshan Madushanka claimed a hat-trick in the final over, becoming only the third Sri Lankan bowler to achieve multiple hat-tricks in ODIs.
What are the upcoming matches between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe?
Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe are set to play a three-match T20I series following the ODIs.
