World Cup debutants Ireland completed only the third tie in competition historin in their opening game against Zimbabwe in at Sabina Park.
A century from Jeremy Bray helped the Irish to 221 for nine, leaving the Africans well posied for victory.
They went into the final over requiring nine to win and after scoring eight, the scores were level with one Andrew White delivery remaining.
But Stuart Matsikenyeri, who had made 73 not out, failed to record the winning wuns.
In Port of Spain, Trinidad, Sri Lanka beat Bermuda by 243 runs in their Group B match.
Sri Lanka posted 321 for six, with Kumar Sangakkara (76) and Mahela Jayawardene (85) posting 152 for the third wicket.
Chamara Silva then hit 55 not out from 45 balls.
Farveez Maharoof took four for 23 as Bermuda crumbled to 78 all out.
Lionel Cann made 28 for the islanders, who suffered the second-biggest World Cup finals defeat.
