LACKLUSTER WEST INDIES BEAT ZIMBABWE

The hosts on World Cup 2007 overcame a late, but determined challenge from Zimbabwe, winning by 6 wickets and securing their place in the Super Eights. Despite the loss, the Zimbabweans are still in the competition - they need to beat Pakistan on in their final Group D match and then rely on having a better run-rate than Ireland.

Zimbabwe batted first and within three overs Zimbabwe were 2 for 2 and it looked to be an early finish. But the African team settled, dug in and they eventually posted 202 for 5 thanks to Brendan Taylor (50), who played a vital anchoring knock when the innings was coming apart at the seams. Sean Williams finished with a career-best 70 not out, and Elton Chigumbura, whose boldness yielded 30 off 29 balls took them over the double century.

West Indies took the crease and despite some anxiety when Marlon Samuels (28) drove loosely to point and West Indies were 129 for 4 chasing 203. But Brian Lara (44 not out), aided by Dwayne Bravo (37 not out), steadied the ship and then eased West Indies home scoring 204 and winning by 6 wickets. Even so, Zimbabwe had chances: Twice Lara should have been run-out, Elton Chigumbura spilt a tough return catch and substitute Gary Brent dropped Bravo at third man. The only area that Zimbabwe could compete was in the field, and while their commitment was unquestionable, they fell short when it mattered.

Final score:
West Indies: (4 wickets; 47.5 overs) 204
Zimbabwe: (5 wickets; 50 overs) 202
OUR MAN OF THE MATCH

Sean Williams
Full Name: Sean Colin Williams
Born: 26/09/1986, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Age: 20 years
Team: Zimbabwe
Batting Style: Left-hand bat
Bowling Style: Slow left-arm orthodox

Regarded as being one of Zimbabwe's most promising youngsters, Williams is a left-hand top-order batsman and more than useful left-arm spinner. He was the pick of Zimbabwe's batsmen with 157 runs at 31.40, as well as five wickets, in the Under-19 World Cup in 2004. With just one first-class match under his belt, he was drafted into the Zimbabwe squad to tour South Africa and was selected to represent his country in the World Cup 2007.