Madushanka's Last-Over Hat-Trick Secures Sri Lanka ODI Win Over Zimbabwe

Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka delivered a sensational last-over hat-trick to secure a dramatic seven-run victory over Zimbabwe in the first One-Day International at the Harare Sports Club. Chasing a daunting target of 299, Zimbabwe needed 10 runs off the final over, but Madushanka dismissed key batsmen Sikandar Raza for 92, Brad Evans, and Richard Ngarava in consecutive deliveries, finishing with figures of 4-62. Sri Lanka set up the challenging total with strong late innings contributions from Janith Liyanage and Kamindu Mendis after a precarious position at 161-5. Zimbabwe's chase featured notable partnerships, including 118 runs between Sean Williams and Ben Curran, and a crucial 128-run stand between Raza and Tony Munyonga, but Madushanka's final over heroics stopped them just short. Madushanka became only the eighth Sri Lankan to achieve an ODI hat-trick, joining legends like Chaminda Vaas and Lasith Malinga. The two-match ODI series will conclude with a second match, followed by three Twenty20 internationals.