While players try to the best of their ability to come out on top till the time the result of the match is yet to be decided, after that it's all about respect and admiration for one's opponents even when the result hasn't gone in one's favour. In a video which perhaps comes close to defining what sportsmanship is all about, despite registering a crucial game against West Indies which has pretty much kept them alive to secure a place in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, the hosts not only celebrated but were also mindful of the fact that it was a heart-shattering moment for two-time World Cup winners who find themselves struggling to even qualify this time around.
A video has surfaced on social media in which Zimbabwe players can be seen consoling West Indies' Akeal Hosein who was clearly disheartened at not being able to help his team cross the line. The video has been shared by the ICC on their social media handle.
Here is the viral clip:
Talking about the match, Zimbabwe made 268 runs batting first with Sikandar Raza top-scoring with 68 and Ryan Burl also chipping in with a handy 50. Captain Craig Ervine's 47 off 58 deliveries was also a notable contribution. In response, the Windies though were bowled out for just 233 desipite Kyle Mayers' 56 and Roston Chase's 44. Tendai Chatara was the pick of the bowlers for the winning team, finishing with figures of 3/52. Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani and Raza all picked 2 wickets apiece with Wellington Masakadza getting a solitary wicket.
After their win over West Indies at the Harare Sports Club on Saturday (June 24), the home team will take on the United States in their last league match on Monday (June 26). West Indies, meanwhile, will take on the Netherlands in their final fixture on Monday.