Zimbabwe have narrowly avoided defeat against the cricket minnows in Nelson.
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A match-winning 76 from Sean Williams ensured Zimbabwe won its first game at the 2015 Cricket World Cup after a nervy run-chase saw the UAE come close to its first win at the top level of ODI cricket.
The UAE set a competitive total of 7 for 285 in their first World Cup appearance since 1996 and made inroads with the ball, leaving Zimbabwe reeling at 5 for 167 midway through their innings.
Williams and Sean Ervine (42) combined for an 83-run partnership to get Zimbabwe out of trouble, but their innings may best be remembered for the dismissal of Regis Chakabva, who kicked over his own stumps on 35.
The victory ended Zimbabwe’s losing streak of seven games which stretches all the way back to August after their three-wicket win over Australia in Harare.
Perhaps fittingly it was Williams who hit the winning runs for Zimbabwe, with the relief clear to see on the faces of players, coaches and fans alike.
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