Zimbabwe achieved a major upset by beating Australia by 23 runs in the 19th Match, Group B of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 at R. Premadasa Stadium. Zimbabwe set a challenging target of 169/2 in 20 overs and successfully bowled Australia out for 146 in 19.3 overs.
Australia won the toss and chose to bowl, expecting to limit Zimbabwe’s scoring. However, Zimbabwe’s steady batting changed the game’s dynamics.
Brian Bennett leads Zimbabwe’s innings
Zimbabwe’s innings was anchored by Brian Bennett, who scored 64 runs off 56 balls. Bennett hit seven boundaries and managed his innings well, helping Zimbabwe maintain momentum. Tadiwanashe Marumani also contributed with a quick 35 runs from 21 balls, hitting seven fours.
The duo added crucial runs in the powerplay, forcing Australia to adjust their bowling. Although Marumani’s innings ended early, Bennett kept the score ticking.
In the latter stages, Ryan Burl scored a solid 35 off 30 balls, regularly finding gaps. Sikandar Raza finished strongly, hitting 25 runs off just 13 balls, including a six, bringing Zimbabwe to a commendable total of 169/2.
Australia’s bowling showed a lack of intensity. Marcus Stoinis and Cameron Green took a wicket each, but key bowlers like Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, and Adam Zampa failed to take significant wickets.
Blessing Muzarabani shines with the ball
Chasing 170, Australia struggled to find their rhythm. Josh Inglis hit a six but fell early for 8 runs. Travis Head managed only 17, while Green and Tim David were dismissed without scoring, putting pressure on the Australian side.
Glenn Maxwell tried to stabilize the innings with 31 runs off 32 balls, but Zimbabwe’s tight bowling hampered his progress. The main resistance came from Matt Renshaw, who scored 65 runs from 44 balls, including five fours and a six.
Each time Australia aimed to build a partnership, Zimbabwe responded effectively. Blessing Muzarabani had an impressive spell, taking 4 wickets for just 17 runs in four overs. His pace and accuracy proved too tough for Australia’s middle and lower order.
Brad Evans supported well with 3 wickets for 23 runs, while Wellington Masakadza and Burl took one wicket each, ensuring Australia was bowled out for 146 in 19.3 overs, giving Zimbabwe a memorable 23-run victory.
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