The unfancied hosts scored 274-8 in their 50 overs, with the West Indians managing just 243-8 in reply, to take a surprise 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Zimbabwe had been put into bat by Chris Gayle. The West Indies captain expected the heavy clouding and an early 9.30 am start to give his attack every opportunity.

But all seven top order Zimbabweans got to double figures. Justice Chibhabha anchored the innings with 73 and Stuart Matsikenyere hit 55 off 40 balls.

The tourists were struggling right from the start of their innings. Gayle was out in the third over for just two runs and the West Indians then found themselves on 22-2 due to the departure of Devon Smith.

The arrival of Chanderpaul promised to change the tone. Indeed he was there at the end, having passed the 7,000 runs career mark in ODIs, getting to 7,113.

But he used up 138 balls in the process and never took command of proceedings. The story is told by his two sixes but only five other boundaries.