Lasith Malinga set to miss second ODI vs Zimbabwe

Sri Lanka was given a reality check by underdogs Zimbabwe when the latter rode on some gutsy batting performances to pick up the victory in the first ODI. Sri Lanka found themselves toiling at the bottom of the ICC ODI rankings before the start of the tournament and had the opportunity to revive the same against a comparatively weaker side.

But Angelo Mathews and his men failed to capitalise on the chance and were beaten comprehensively. To pile upon the miseries, ace speedster Lasith Malinga has been ruled out of the second One Day International. The slinger fell victim to viral influenza and Angelo Mathews will have to find a way to deal without his primary bowler in the second match.

About the match:

Malinga picked up only one wicket in the first match from the 9 overs that he bowled. He gave away 51 runs in the process. The bowling department was significantly poor for the Sri Lankans, as Zimbabwe chased down a mammoth total of 316 runs pretty comfortably with the loss of 4 wickets. Solomon Mire smashed an inspiring hundred and finished his knock at 112 runs. He was supported brilliantly by Sean Williams (65). Sikandar Raza (67*) and Malcolm Waller (40*) as Zimbabwe went one ahead in the series.

Zimbabwe cricket was going through a tough time as they lost star players Brendon Taylor and Kyle Jarvis to county cricket. They were also defeated by Scotland and Netherlands, two lower ranked sides, on their Europe tour. But the players showed some great character to surprise the Sri Lankans in their own backyard.

The next match is scheduled to take place on 2^nd July, which is a Sunday. Galle will host the second match too and skipper Angelo Mathews has some serious task in hand. Pressure will be upon the Sri Lankans as they need to silence their critics while Zimbabwe will look to stretch the lead.