Williams takes Zimbabwe home

Zimbabwe recovered from early trauma to set right their stance ahead of Bermuda in the cricketing pond, defeating the minnows by 6 wickets in their final World Cup warmup match.

Sean Williams, 20, who impressed with 44 against Australia two days ago, scored a composed 72 not out. He faced 82 balls and shared in a match-sealing 44-run stand with Stuart Matsikenyera (21 not out). Zimbabwe lost early wickets of Terrence Duffin (1) and Vusi Sibanda (2), but recovered from 5-2 to chase 137 for victory with great ease.

Once again the imposing figure of Dwayne Leverock was matched with an outstanding performance, as he captured 2 for 54 to lead the generally ineffective Bermudan attack.

With the bat earlier on it was hardly a more impressive showing by Bermuda, and an innings of 56 from Janeiro Tucker was paramount in a total of 136 all out. A massive improvement on Monday’s 45 against England, but still not enough to justify Bermuda’s status as World Cup competitors.

Six of the Zimbabwe bowlers took wickets, and Anthony Ireland – 3 for 22 – returned the best figures on a rare good day for Zimbabwe.

Bermuda 136 all out
Janeiro Tucker 56, Oliver Pitcher 16
Anthony Ireland 3-22, Christopher Mpofu 2-22

Zimbabwe 137-4
Sean Williams 72*, Justice Chibhabha 30
Dwayne Leverock 2-54

Zimbabwe won by 6 wickets.