West Indies lose again to Zimbabwe

West Indies suffered another shock defeat to Zimbabwe as the visitors won the opening One-Day International of the five-match series by two runs at the Guyana National Stadium earlier this afternoon.



West Indies, chasing Zimbabwe\'s 254 for five off 50 overs, were restricted to 252 for nine.



The West Indies needed 15 runs off the last over and were well on course when tailender Nikita Miller hit a six and a four off the first two balls.



He took a single off the third delivery before debutant pacer Shingirai Masakadza shifted the momentum with two wickets in successive balls.



It left the hosts needing four off the last ball and last man Kemar Roach could only eek out a single as Zimbabwe celebrated their first one-day victory over the West Indies in the Caribbean in ten attempts.



The West Indies\' run chase was paced by their two most experienced batsmen, captain Chris Gayle, who slammed 57 off 66 balls and Shivnarine Chanderpaul who scored a run-a-ball 70.



Shingirai Masakadza was the most successful bowler for Zimbabwe with three for 36 off three overs.



Earlier, opener Vusi Sibanda hit a resolute 95 to anchor Zimbabwe after they won the toss and batted.



Wicket-keeper Tatenda Taibu contributed a vital 56 off 54 balls in a second wicket stand of 100 with Sibanda.



Hamilton Masakadza scored 41 off 45 deliveries at the top of the order. Kieron Pollard was West Indies most successful bowler with two for 59.



The second contest in the five-match series is at the same venue on Saturday.