Zimbabwe produced one of the biggest upsets of the ICC T20 World Cup by defeating former champions Australia by 23 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
The victory not only strengthened Zimbabwe’s position in Group B but also maintained their unbeaten record in the tournament.
After being sent in to bat by stand-in Australian captain Travis Head, Zimbabwe posted a competitive total of 169/2 in 20 overs.
Young opener Brian Bennett played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten on 64 off 56 balls.
He anchored the innings brilliantly and ensured Zimbabwe built a solid platform. Tadiwanashe Marumani and Ryan Burl contributed valuable 35-run knocks, keeping the scoreboard moving in the middle overs.
Captain Sikandar Raza provided the late surge despite struggling with cramps in humid conditions. His quick 25 off just 13 balls, including a massive six off Nathan Ellis, pushed Zimbabwe to a strong total.
In response, Australia’s chase never gained momentum. Zimbabwe’s pace attack dismantled the top order early.
Blessing Muzarabani was outstanding with figures of 4/17, claiming his 100th T20I wicket, while Brad Evans picked up 3/23. Australia collapsed to 3-25 inside four overs, with Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, and Tim David falling cheaply.
Matthew Renshaw fought back with a resilient 65, and Glenn Maxwell added 31 as the pair stitched together a crucial 77-run partnership.
However, spinner Ryan Burl broke the stand, triggering another collapse. Australia was eventually bowled out for 146 in the final over.
A stunning boundary catch by Tony Munyonga to dismiss Ben Dwarshuis highlighted Zimbabwe’s fielding brilliance, sealing a memorable win. This marks Zimbabwe’s second T20 World Cup victory over Australia, the first coming in 2007.
With two wins from two matches, Zimbabwe now sit at the top of the Group B table alongside Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, Australia face must-win matches against Sri Lanka and Oman to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Zimbabwe’s clinical performance proved their growing strength in international cricket and sent a strong message to higher-ranked teams in the tournament.
