HARARE, JULY 10
Sri Lanka bundled the Netherlands out for 105 to win the final of a World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe by a huge 128 runs on Sunday.
It wasn't too much of a disappointment for the Dutch as both teams had already qualified for this year's 50-over Cricket World Cup in India in October and November by reaching Sunday's final at Harare Sports Club.
Sri Lanka gained the added prestige of winning the tournament after another impressive showing by spin bowler Maheesh Theekshana. He collected 4-31 in 6.3 overs and took the last three wickets to end the Netherlands' hopes.
After being asked to bat first, Sri Lanka made 233 all out in 47.5 overs which was a sub-par total itself, with Sahan Arachchige making an impact with his 57 from 71 balls.
The Dutch slumped in their chase in the final, lasting only 23.3. overs, but achieved their main objective in Zimbabwe with a surprise late surge in the Super Six stage when they appeared out of contention.
Coach Ryan Cook said qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 2011 should spark a little more interest in his team and the sport back home.
"Hopefully we will be able to pick up a sponsor or two and bring a bit of revenue to the game," Cook said. "The players are paid lowly at the moment in comparison to other countries. You need resources to do that.
"At the moment we only have one full member within the coaching staff. Hopefully we will be able to get some resources to bolster the coaching as well."
Sri Lanka, the 1996 World Cup champions, won all eight of its games at the qualifiers to keep its record of playing at every Cricket World Cup since the tournament started in 1975.
"It's tricky when you come to these competitions, where everyone is fighting for the same ticket. Strange things happen when the pressure is on," Sri Lanka coach Chris Silverwood said. "It's been great that we have been able to overcome those challenges."
Two-time World Cup champion West Indies failed to qualify and will miss the 50-over showpiece for the first time.
