Unexpected defeat by Afghanistan last week had halted the West Indies' momentum in the Super Sixes, from which the top two teams will qualify for next year's World Cup in England and Wales.

But they now lead the table with six points, one ahead of Zimbabwe, after a victory by four wickets at the Harare Sports Club.

Zimbabwe won the toss and elected to bat, reaching 289 after their allotted 50 overs, with Brendan Taylor scoring an exceptional 138, his tenth century in one day internationals (ODIs).

Sean Williams chipped in with 34 runs, scoring his 3,000th run in ODIs in the process.

Jason Holder was the West Indian bowler to gain the most tangible rewards for his efforts as he took four wickets for 35.

The West Indies lost Chris Gayle early for 17, but restored their challenge through a steady partnership between Shai Hope and Evin Lewis, who made 76 and 64 respectively.

Then Marlon Samuels pressed the accelerator, making 86 runs from 80 balls before being dismissed, a performance that earned him the man of the match award.

West Indies lost their way for a while after Samuels' departure, but Powell and Nurse guided them home as they reached 290 for six with an over to spare.

Blessing Muzarabani took two for 36.

"This is a special team effort," said Samuels.

"We know what's at stake."

West Indies are now in control of their destiny, with their final match, against Scotland, coming up on Wednesday (March 21).

The Scots, who suffered their first Super Sixes defeat yesterday in losing to Ireland, are currently level on points with Zimbabwe but behind on run rate.

Zimbabwe can secure their progress with victory on Thursday (March 22) against Afghanistan, whose only points so far have come against West Indies, although they can change that tomorrow as they complete the penultimate round with a match against United Arab Emirates, currently without any points.